Investigating how hormonal changes affect fibrosis in systemic sclerosis

The Role of Hormonal Dysregulation in Systemic Sclerosis

NIH-funded research Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-10899686

This study is looking at how estrogen affects the thickening of skin in people with systemic sclerosis, hoping to find new ways to treat the condition by understanding how hormones play a role in it.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMedical University of South Carolina NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charleston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10899686 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of estrogen in the development of fibrosis in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). By examining how estrogen receptors influence fibrosis, the study aims to identify potential new treatments that could inhibit estrogen production and signaling. The researchers will analyze skin samples and use various models to explore the relationship between estrogen levels and disease outcomes. This approach may lead to a better understanding of how hormonal dysregulation contributes to the severity of SSc.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with systemic sclerosis, particularly those experiencing significant fibrosis.

Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of systemic sclerosis or those whose condition is not related to hormonal dysregulation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options that prevent or reverse fibrosis in systemic sclerosis patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of targeting estrogen in systemic sclerosis is novel, similar strategies have shown promise in other autoimmune diseases.

Where this research is happening

Charleston, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.