Investigating how environmental factors affect autoimmune diseases in Native American communities
Official title: Environmental Influences Driving Autoimmunity and Autoimmune Disease in Tribal Members
Funded at Cherokee Nation · NIH-10912534 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the environment affects autoimmune diseases in Native American communities, especially in the Cherokee Nation, to find better ways to diagnose and treat these conditions, while also checking how COVID-19 might change things for those already dealing with autoimmune issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cherokee Nation NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tahlequah, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $375,370 |
| NIH project number | 5S06GM146122-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10912534 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include Native American individuals experiencing symptoms of autoimmune diseases or those with a family history of such conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not identify as Native American or who do not have autoimmune disease symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the unique environmental influences that contribute to autoimmune diseases among Native American populations, particularly in the Cherokee Nation. It aims to identify specific autoantibodies and cytokine signatures that differ from those found in other racial groups, which complicates diagnosis and treatment in primary care settings. The study also explores the impact of COVID-19 on autoantibody production, which may exacerbate existing autoimmune conditions. By collaborating with local communities, the research seeks to improve diagnostic and treatment strategies tailored to the needs of tribal members.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and effective treatments for autoimmune diseases in Native American populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding unique autoantibody profiles in specific populations can lead to improved healthcare outcomes, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Cherokee Nation
Tahlequah, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: James, Judith a — Cherokee Nation
- Study coordinator: James, Judith a
Related research
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Cherokee Nation Native American Research Centers for Health program grant
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Cherokee Nation Native American Research Centers for Health (NARCH) program
A tribal-centered NIH program to build research capacity and train the next generation of scientists to study health disparities affecting Cherokee Nation members.
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.