How immune cell DNA sparks lupus and related autoimmune diseases
Collaborative Project
Researchers are looking at whether DNA carried in tiny particles from activated T cells drives harmful immune activation in people with lupus and similar autoimmune conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11520807 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, the team will examine small particles (exosomes) released by activated T cells to see if they carry DNA that triggers interferon-driven inflammation. They will compare blood and immune samples from people with systemic lupus erythematosus or scleroderma to samples from healthy volunteers and check for anti-DNase antibodies and changes in DNASE1/DNASE1L3. Lab tests will show how exosome DNA activates immune cells and whether differences in DNA structure or clearance explain disease activity. The goal is to identify blood markers and mechanisms that could point to new tests or therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus or other systemic autoimmune diseases (and healthy volunteers for comparison) would be the main candidates for participation.
Not a fit: People without systemic autoimmune diseases or those seeking immediate changes to their clinical treatment are unlikely to gain direct, immediate benefit from participating.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to blood tests that predict disease activity and new treatments that stop DNA-driven immune activation in lupus and related diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has linked anti-DNA antibodies and interferon responses to lupus, but focusing on DNA carried by activated T cell exosomes is a newer approach still in early testing.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lyden, David Charles — Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
- Study coordinator: Lyden, David Charles
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.