Investigating how silica exposure and viral infections contribute to autoimmune diseases
Official title: Synergistic effects of silica exposure, virus infection and genetic predisposition in systemic autoimmunity
Funded at San Diego Biomedical Research Institute · NIH-10832472 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how exposure to silica and viruses, along with genetic factors, might work together to trigger lupus, an autoimmune disease, and it’s using mice to see if these combined exposures lead to stronger immune responses than just one alone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | San Diego Biomedical Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2021 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $421,872 |
| NIH project number | 5R01ES031082-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10832472 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a genetic predisposition to autoimmune diseases, particularly those who have been exposed to silica or viral infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a genetic predisposition to autoimmune diseases or have not been exposed to silica or relevant viral infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between silica exposure, viral infections, and genetic factors in the development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disease. By examining how these elements interact, the study aims to understand the mechanisms that lead to immune system activation and the production of autoantibodies. The researchers will utilize mouse models to investigate how combined exposures to silica and viruses may trigger more severe autoimmune responses compared to individual exposures. This approach could reveal critical insights into the environmental and genetic factors that influence the onset and severity of autoimmune diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of autoimmune diseases, potentially guiding preventive strategies and treatments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that environmental factors, including silica exposure and viral infections, can influence autoimmune disease development, suggesting that this study builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
San Diego Biomedical Research Institute
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Baccala, Roberto G — San Diego Biomedical Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Baccala, Roberto G
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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.