Investigating the genetic and environmental causes of autoimmune thyroid diseases
Official title: Analyzing genetic and environmental molecular mechanisms causing autoimmune thyroid diseases
Funded at Albert Einstein College of Medicine · NIH-10877967 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into the causes of autoimmune thyroid diseases like Graves’ disease and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis to find out how genes and the environment play a role, with the hope of discovering new treatments that can help people manage their condition better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $403,200 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK129664-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10877967 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Graves’ disease or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of autoimmune diseases unrelated to thyroid function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the complex mechanisms behind autoimmune thyroid diseases, specifically Graves’ disease and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. It aims to identify genetic factors and environmental triggers that contribute to these conditions, which are currently managed only through symptomatic treatments. The researchers will utilize a novel mouse model to explore how specific genetic variations in the thyroglobulin gene may lead to autoimmune responses. By dissecting these mechanisms, the study seeks to pave the way for new targeted therapies that could improve patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of targeted therapies that more effectively manage autoimmune thyroid diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding genetic and environmental factors in autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Bronx, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tomer, Yaron — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Tomer, Yaron
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Postoperative outcomes after thyroidectomy: ERAS vs standard care
This study tests whether an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol helps adults 18–60 undergoing thyroidectomy recover faster and leave the hospital sooner compared with a local non-ERAS regimen.
-
ETHY-001 safety and activity in Thyroid Eye Disease (TED)
This study tests ETHY-001 versus placebo to see if it is safe, tolerable, and shows activity in people with thyroid eye disease.
-
Role of LH and hCG in adults being evaluated for endocrine disorders
This study looks at whether levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and hCG in adults undergoing endocrine evaluation relate to their disease presence and outcomes.
-
WeChat-supported neck exercises after thyroidectomy
A telehealth program using a WeChat mini program tests if guided neck exercises after thyroid surgery help early recovery and quality of life.
-
NIRAF-guided identification of parathyroids during thyroidectomy
A wearable near-infrared autofluorescence device is being tested to help surgeons find and protect the parathyroid glands during thyroid surgery in adults.
-
Dexmedetomidine to improve waking and reduce coughing after thyroid surgery
This will test whether giving dexmedetomidine from before anesthesia and continuing it during thyroid surgery reduces coughing, agitation, and the amount of anesthetic or opioid needed when waking up.
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.