Investigating how estrogen affects the immune system and autoimmune diseases
Official title: Examining Sexual Dimorphisms: The Role of Estradiol Signaling in Modulating Immunity
Funded at University of Rochester · NIH-11179749 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the hormone estradiol affects the immune system differently in men and women, especially for women with a rare lung disease called LAM, to help us understand how hormones might influence health and immune responses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $55,082 |
| NIH project number | 3R01HL168407-01A1S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11179749 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include women with autoimmune conditions or those affected by lymphangioleiomyomatosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are men or those without autoimmune diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the differences in immune responses between genders, particularly focusing on how the hormone estradiol influences immunity and autoimmunity. The study aims to understand the mechanisms by which estradiol affects immune function, especially in women with a rare lung disease called lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM), which is sensitive to estrogen levels. By using animal models, the researchers will investigate the relationship between estrogen signaling and immune responses, potentially uncovering new insights into how hormonal changes impact health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for autoimmune diseases that disproportionately affect women.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of hormones in immune function, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hammes, Stephen R. — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Hammes, Stephen R.
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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.