How lipid droplets in immune cells affect lupus
Official title: Role of Lipid Droplets in Macrophages and their Consequences in Lupus
Funded at Feinstein Institute for Medical Research · NIH-10867721 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny fat droplets in immune cells called macrophages can help improve the way these cells work in people with lupus, a condition that makes it hard for the body to clear out dead cells and control inflammation, with the hope of finding new ways to help manage the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Feinstein Institute for Medical Research NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Manhasset, United States) |
| Project start | September 23, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $405,350 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AR084084-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10867721 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without autoimmune diseases or those not diagnosed with lupus may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of lipid droplets in macrophages, which are immune cells that help clear dead cells and modulate inflammation. The study focuses on systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disease where this clearance process is impaired. By exploring the interaction between specific proteins and lipid droplets, the research aims to uncover new therapeutic targets that could improve macrophage function and reduce inflammation in SLE patients. The approach includes examining how these lipid droplets influence macrophage behavior and their potential to enhance anti-inflammatory responses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, targeted treatments for lupus that are less toxic than current options.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of targeting lipid droplets in macrophages for lupus is novel, similar strategies have shown promise in other autoimmune conditions.
Where this research is happening
-
Feinstein Institute for Medical Research
Manhasset, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Son, Myoungsun — Feinstein Institute for Medical Research
- Study coordinator: Son, Myoungsun
Related research
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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.