Investigating environmental factors in autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.

The Exposome in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: EXACT Network Planning

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10869439

This study is looking to understand how things in our environment might trigger autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, especially in people who are at risk, so we can learn more about what causes these conditions before they start.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10869439 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to develop a collaborative network to study the exposome, which includes environmental factors that may influence the onset of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). By focusing on individuals at risk before they develop these conditions, the research seeks to identify potential causal relationships between environmental exposures and disease onset. The study will utilize existing cohorts and databases to gather data on various exposures and their effects on health. This approach will help clarify how environmental factors contribute to the risk of developing autoimmune diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for developing rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus, particularly those with a family history or other predisposing factors.

Not a fit: Patients who already have established rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus may not benefit directly from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for autoimmune diseases, potentially improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of studying the exposome in this context is relatively novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding environmental impacts on other diseases.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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 Autoimmune Diseasesautoimmune disorderautoimmunity disease
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.