Investigating how X-chromosome inactivation affects immune responses in women
Role for nuclear matrix proteins and DNA methylation for XCI maintenance in female lymphocytes
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-10881910
This study is looking at how certain changes in female immune cells might contribute to lupus, a condition that mainly affects women, by focusing on a process called X-chromosome inactivation and its impact on B cells, with the hope of finding new ways to understand and treat the disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10881910 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research explores the mechanisms behind systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a condition that disproportionately affects women. It focuses on the role of X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) and how it may be disrupted in female immune cells, particularly B lymphocytes. The study examines the relationship between DNA methylation and the maintenance of XCI, aiming to understand how these factors contribute to the development of autoimmune responses. By analyzing B cells from SLE patients, the research seeks to uncover potential epigenetic changes that could lead to better understanding and treatment of the disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are females diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus or those at risk of developing the condition.
Not a fit: Patients with autoimmune diseases unrelated to X-chromosome inactivation or those who are male may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the causes of systemic lupus erythematosus and pave the way for targeted therapies.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of examining XCI maintenance in B cells is novel, related research has shown that understanding epigenetic factors can significantly impact autoimmune disease treatment.
Where this research is happening
PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA — PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ANGUERA, MONTSERRAT C — UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
- Study coordinator: ANGUERA, MONTSERRAT C
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 below.
Conditions: Autoimmune Diseases