How sex and gut microbes shape autoimmune disease
Host's and microbiota's contribution to sexual dimorphism of autoimmunity
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO · NIH-11258843
This research looks at how biological sex and gut bacteria change the immune system in people with autoimmune diseases like lupus, multiple sclerosis, and type 1 diabetes.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11258843 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, the team uses genetically modified and germ-free (gnotobiotic) animals together with advanced computer analysis to learn how sex hormones and gut microbes influence immune cells linked to autoimmune diseases. They focus on the androgen receptor and how it affects T cells both within the cell and through external signals. By altering microbes and hormone signals at different life stages, they hope to map when and how these factors increase or reduce autoimmune risk. The findings are intended to guide future human studies and possible new prevention or treatment strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with autoimmune conditions that show strong sex differences—especially lupus, Sjogren’s syndrome, multiple sclerosis, and some forms of type 1 diabetes—are the most relevant patient group.
Not a fit: Patients with autoimmune issues that are not linked to sex differences or microbiota-driven mechanisms may be less likely to see direct benefit from this specific work in the near term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new targets—such as hormone pathways or microbial changes—for preventing or treating autoimmune diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal and early human studies have linked gut microbes and sex hormones to autoimmunity, but this integrated focus on androgen receptor effects in T cells is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
CHICAGO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO — CHICAGO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CHERVONSKY, ALEXANDER V — UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO
- Study coordinator: CHERVONSKY, ALEXANDER V
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.
Conditions: Autoimmune Diseases