Investigating a signaling pathway involved in systemic sclerosis

EphB/EphrinB signaling in Systemic Sclerosis

NIH-funded research University of Utah · NIH-10898707

This study is looking at how certain proteins in the body might help stop skin damage and thickening in people with systemic sclerosis, and it hopes to find new ways to treat this condition by understanding how these proteins work.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Utah NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Salt Lake City, United States)
Project IDNIH-10898707 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on the EphB2 receptor and its EphrinB ligands as potential targets to prevent vascular damage and fibrosis in systemic sclerosis (SSc), a condition characterized by excessive collagen deposition in the skin. By studying human skin biopsies and mouse models, the researchers aim to understand how these signaling molecules contribute to the disease process. The goal is to uncover the biochemical pathways that lead to the transformation of skin cells into fibrogenic cells, which exacerbate fibrosis. This could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing SSc.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with systemic sclerosis who are experiencing skin fibrosis.

Not a fit: Patients with other autoimmune diseases that do not involve skin fibrosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or reduce skin fibrosis in patients with systemic sclerosis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar signaling pathways for fibrosis in other organs, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.

Where this research is happening

Salt Lake City, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions Animal Disease Modelsblood vessel disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.