Investigating how sex and gender differences affect lupus and heart health

Sex and gender differences in lupus - intersection between immunometabolism, epigenetic remodeling and cardiac involvement

NIH-funded research Cedars-Sinai Medical Center · NIH-10909019

This study is looking at how lupus affects men and women differently, especially when it comes to heart health and symptoms, and it aims to find out how things like vitamin D levels and immune responses play a role, so that treatments can be better suited for each person.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCedars-Sinai Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10909019 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the differences in lupus symptoms and cardiovascular health between male and female patients. It focuses on how metabolic activity and environmental factors, such as vitamin D levels, influence immune responses and organ involvement in lupus. By using advanced cardiac imaging and metabolomic profiling, the study aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that lead to these differences, particularly in monocytes, which are immune cells involved in inflammation and cardiovascular disease. The findings could help tailor treatments based on sex and improve health outcomes for lupus patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with lupus, particularly those experiencing cardiovascular issues.

Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of lupus or those not experiencing cardiovascular complications may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized and effective treatments for lupus patients, particularly in managing cardiovascular risks.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding sex differences in autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.
Conditions Autoimmune Diseases
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.