Predictors of autoimmunity onset and relapse in skin
Official title: Predictive drivers of new onset, relapse, and progression of human autoimmunity in skin
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11471389 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A study to understand what biological signals in skin predict when autoimmune diseases start, flare, or worsen in people at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2026 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,054,335 |
| NIH project number | 7U01AI176310-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11471389 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals at risk for autoimmune skin diseases or those with early signs who are willing to provide skin and blood samples over time.
✕Less likely to help
People without autoimmune risk factors or skin disease may not directly benefit.
What this research studies
We will follow a diverse group of people at risk for autoimmune skin diseases over time, collecting skin samples and blood with easy, at-home sampling tools. Researchers will look for molecular clues in skin that precede disease development or relapses and link them to clinical outcomes. The study uses a team of experts and advanced technologies to map how autoimmunity begins and spreads in the skin. This work aims to identify early indicators so doctors can intervene earlier and tailor treatments. Participants will contribute small samples and health information over the study period.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the findings could enable earlier detection and prevention strategies for autoimmune skin diseases, potentially reducing morbidity.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work has shown detectable skin-based preclinical signals in autoimmunity, suggesting this approach could succeed.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harris, John E — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Harris, John E
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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.