Investigating how certain proteins affect immune responses in lupus
Official title: Differential role of TASL and SLC15A4 in TLR responses to nucleic acids and lupus development
Funded at San Diego Biomedical Research Institute · NIH-10744240 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how two proteins, TASL and SLC15A4, affect the immune system in people with lupus, and it hopes to find out if blocking SLC15A4 could help treat lupus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | San Diego Biomedical Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | November 18, 2022 |
| Project end | October 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $240,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI174237-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10744240 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other autoimmune diseases not related to lupus may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the roles of two proteins, TASL and SLC15A4, in the immune response related to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). By using mouse models, the study aims to clarify how these proteins influence the activation of immune cells and the production of autoantibodies, which are harmful in lupus. The researchers will explore whether inhibiting SLC15A4 can serve as a potential treatment strategy for lupus patients. This work combines both laboratory experiments and insights from human studies to provide a comprehensive view of lupus pathogenesis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing lupus and improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting immune pathways in lupus, suggesting that this approach could be beneficial.
Where this research is happening
-
San Diego Biomedical Research Institute
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Baccala, Roberto G — San Diego Biomedical Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Baccala, Roberto G
Related research
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A doctor-scientist at Yale is studying why certain immune T cells cause skin damage in discoid lupus, with the goal of finding ways to reduce scarring and improve health for patients, especially African American women.
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A study in people with lupus looks at tiny RNA pieces that may spark inflammation, to understand if they drive disease activity.
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Researchers at Howard University are studying how immune factors in people with lupus may help limit HIV infection.
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PTPRS and lupus nephritis: a new target to reduce kidney damage in lupus
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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.