Innate immune-driven changes in kidney function leading to high blood pressure in women with autoimmune disease
Official title: Innate Immune Mediated Changes in Renal Function to Cause Hypertension in Females with Autoimmune Disease
Funded at Augusta University · NIH-11408756 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the body's innate immune system affects kidney function and blood pressure in women with autoimmune disease, especially lupus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Augusta University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Augusta, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $315,053 |
| NIH project number | 5U54HL169191-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11408756 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are women with autoimmune disease (notably SLE) who are at risk for or have hypertension and are able to participate in related preclinical or translational research activities.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without autoimmune disease or those not at risk for hypertension may not benefit directly.
What this research studies
Researchers will explore how immune system signals in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) may drive high blood pressure through kidney-related mechanisms. The project focuses on oxidative stress in the kidneys, reactive oxygen species, and how immune components like NETs and HMGB1 contribute to changes in renal function and sodium handling. By studying female mouse models that mirror human SLE, the team aims to uncover targetable pathways to prevent hypertension in this patient group. The goal is to translate these findings into strategies that reduce cardiovascular risk in women with autoimmune conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new approaches that prevent or lessen high blood pressure in women with autoimmune diseases like SLE.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies in female lupus models showed renal dysfunction and hypertension that could be reduced with antioxidants, supporting a plausible path for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Augusta University
Augusta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ryan, Michael — Augusta University
- Study coordinator: Ryan, Michael
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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.