Investigating if Epstein-Barr Virus causes Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Official title: Does Epstein-Barr Virus(EBV)Cause Systemic Lupus Erythematosus SLE)?
Funded at Cincinnati VA Medical Center Research · NIH-10951532 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether the Epstein-Barr virus might be linked to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus by comparing blood samples from military personnel who develop lupus with those who don’t, to see if there are any differences that could help us understand how lupus might start.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cincinnati VA Medical Center Research NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2023 |
| Project end | September 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX006254-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10951532 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include active duty military personnel who have provided serum samples and may be at risk for developing SLE.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of EBV infection or are not part of the active duty military population may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to explore the potential link between Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) by analyzing serum samples collected from active duty military personnel. The study will utilize a Matched Etiologic Exposure Window (MEEW) strategy to determine if EBV infection and related antibodies are present before the onset of SLE. By comparing samples from individuals who develop SLE with those who do not, the researchers hope to identify any significant differences that could indicate a causal relationship. This approach builds on previous findings that suggest EBV may play a role in the development of autoimmune diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of the causes of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and potentially inform prevention strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has successfully established a causal link between EBV and other autoimmune diseases, such as Multiple Sclerosis, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Cincinnati VA Medical Center Research
Cincinnati, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harley, John Barker — Cincinnati VA Medical Center Research
- Study coordinator: Harley, John Barker
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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.