SLE treatment with N-acetylcysteine for lupus patients
Official title: SLE Treatment with N-acetylcysteine
Funded at Upstate Medical University · NIH-11543444 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project tests whether N-acetylcysteine, a safe supplement, can help people with systemic lupus erythematosus by supporting the body's natural defenses and reducing disease activity.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Upstate Medical University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Syracuse, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2020 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $862,700 |
| NIH project number | 3U01AR076092-05S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11543444 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus who meet study criteria and can participate in follow-up visits.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with contraindications to NAC or those who do not respond to this mechanism may not benefit.
What this research studies
People living with SLE could potentially benefit from a non-toxic treatment option if NAC proves effective. The study builds on prior data showing NAC can replenish glutathione, calm immune cell activity, and may improve lupus symptoms with manageable side effects. Researchers will monitor safety and disease activity while following patients over time to understand how NAC affects immune pathways in real life. If successful, this could lead to a new, patient-friendly option alongside current therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, NAC could become a safe, accessible way to reduce lupus activity and improve quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Earlier small studies suggested NAC is safe and may improve disease activity in some patients with SLE, but larger trials are needed.
Where this research is happening
-
Upstate Medical University
Syracuse, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Perl, Andras — Upstate Medical University
- Study coordinator: Perl, Andras
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.