NIH-funded research R01 grant

Identifying genetic factors that increase the risk of Sjögren's syndrome

Official title: Discovery and Characterization of Genetic Risk Loci in Sjogren's Syndrome

Funded at Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation · NIH-10907847 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at the genes that might play a role in Sjögren's syndrome, a condition that causes dryness and fatigue, to help find better treatments for people living with it.

More Sjogren's Syndrome research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOklahoma Medical Research Foundation
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Oklahoma City, United States)
Project startSeptember 7, 2020
Project endAugust 31, 2025
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$721,627
NIH project number5R01AR073855-05
Project IDNIH-10907847 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Sjögren's syndrome, particularly those experiencing severe symptoms.

Less likely to help

Patients with Sjögren's syndrome who do not have a genetic predisposition or those with other unrelated autoimmune conditions may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the genetic factors that contribute to Sjögren's syndrome, an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the exocrine glands, leading to symptoms like dryness and fatigue. The study involves collaboration among multiple research groups to analyze genetic data from patients, aiming to identify specific genetic risk loci associated with the condition. By understanding these genetic markers, the research seeks to uncover how they influence immune cell behavior and contribute to the disease's progression. This could ultimately lead to the development of targeted therapies for patients suffering from Sjögren's syndrome.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options and improved management strategies for patients with Sjögren's syndrome.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has successfully identified genetic risk factors in other autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights for Sjögren's syndrome as well.

Where this research is happening

  • Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation
    Oklahoma City, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Lessard, Christopher J — Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation
  • Study coordinator: Lessard, Christopher J

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

  • Glycolytic metabolites, Calcium entry, and Sjögren’s syndrome

    A patient-focused look at how tiny changes in metabolism and calcium signaling might contribute to Sjögren’s syndrome and its effects on saliva.

    NIH research University of Texas Hlth Science Center · San Antonio, United States · NIH-11359626

  • How aging and cell stress damage salivary glands in Sjögren’s

    Researchers are testing whether getting older and increased oxidative (cell) stress make salivary glands more likely to be damaged in Sjögren’s, using mouse models that mimic the disease.

    NIH research Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation · Oklahoma City, United States · NIH-11296942

  • Protein-polymer treatment for Sjögren's

    This project creates tiny protein-polymer medicines intended to reduce eye and mouth dryness and inflammation for people with Sjögren's syndrome.

    NIH research University of Southern California · Los Angeles, UNITED STATES · NIH-11251228

  • Understanding Sjogren's Syndrome and Saliva Production

    This research explores how natural body chemicals and calcium affect saliva production and immune cells in people with Sjögren's syndrome.

    NIH research University of Texas Hlth Science Center · San Antonio, United States · NIH-11110346

  • Developing a new treatment for dry eye disease caused by Sjogren's syndrome

    This study is testing a new, easy-to-get treatment for dry eyes caused by Sjogren's syndrome, using special cells to create a healing extract that could help improve your symptoms and overall eye health.

    NIH research Stellular Bio, INC. · Watertown, United States · NIH-11067525

  • Improving saliva and tear production in Sjögren's syndrome

    This study is looking at how blocking certain receptors in the glands that produce saliva and tears might help people with Sjögren's syndrome, a condition that causes dry mouth and dry eyes, by improving their gland function and making them feel better.

    NIH research University of Missouri-Columbia · Columbia, United States · NIH-11041086

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.