NIH-funded research R01 grant

Investigating how glycolytic metabolites and calcium entry affect Sjögren's syndrome

Official title: Glycolytic metabolites, Calcium entry and Sjogren’s syndrome

Funded at University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-10855763 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain substances in the body, like lactate, affect immune cells in people with Primary Sjögren's syndrome, which can cause dry mouth and other issues, to find new ways to help improve salivary gland function.

More Sjogren's Syndrome research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas Hlth Science Center
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Antonio, United States)
Project startSeptember 19, 2022
Project endJune 30, 2027
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$552,558
NIH project number5R01DE031716-03
Project IDNIH-10855763 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Primary Sjögren's syndrome who experience salivary gland dysfunction.

Less likely to help

Patients without a diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome or those with other unrelated autoimmune conditions may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of glycolytic metabolites, particularly lactate, and calcium entry in the development of Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS), an autoimmune disease that affects salivary glands. The study aims to explore how immune cells infiltrate salivary tissues and how lactate levels influence immune responses and calcium channel activity in these cells. By examining these mechanisms, the research seeks to uncover potential therapeutic targets for improving salivary gland function in affected patients.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve salivary gland function and overall oral health for patients with Sjögren's syndrome.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting metabolic pathways can influence immune responses, suggesting that this approach may yield promising results.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Texas Hlth Science Center
    San Antonio, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Singh, Brij B — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
  • Study coordinator: Singh, Brij B

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

  • Glycolytic metabolites, Calcium entry, and Sjögren’s syndrome

    A patient-focused look at how tiny changes in metabolism and calcium signaling might contribute to Sjögren’s syndrome and its effects on saliva.

    NIH research University of Texas Hlth Science Center · San Antonio, United States · NIH-11359626

  • How aging and cell stress damage salivary glands in Sjögren’s

    Researchers are testing whether getting older and increased oxidative (cell) stress make salivary glands more likely to be damaged in Sjögren’s, using mouse models that mimic the disease.

    NIH research Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation · Oklahoma City, United States · NIH-11296942

  • Protein-polymer treatment for Sjögren's

    This project creates tiny protein-polymer medicines intended to reduce eye and mouth dryness and inflammation for people with Sjögren's syndrome.

    NIH research University of Southern California · Los Angeles, UNITED STATES · NIH-11251228

  • Understanding Sjogren's Syndrome and Saliva Production

    This research explores how natural body chemicals and calcium affect saliva production and immune cells in people with Sjögren's syndrome.

    NIH research University of Texas Hlth Science Center · San Antonio, United States · NIH-11110346

  • Developing a new treatment for dry eye disease caused by Sjogren's syndrome

    This study is testing a new, easy-to-get treatment for dry eyes caused by Sjogren's syndrome, using special cells to create a healing extract that could help improve your symptoms and overall eye health.

    NIH research Stellular Bio, INC. · Watertown, United States · NIH-11067525

  • Improving saliva and tear production in Sjögren's syndrome

    This study is looking at how blocking certain receptors in the glands that produce saliva and tears might help people with Sjögren's syndrome, a condition that causes dry mouth and dry eyes, by improving their gland function and making them feel better.

    NIH research University of Missouri-Columbia · Columbia, United States · NIH-11041086

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.