Studying environmental factors in autoimmune diseases like lupus and scleroderma.

Enhancing the IMHRD cohort to support study of the exposome in autoimmune disease

['FUNDING_R21'] · MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA · NIH-10871488

This study is looking at how things in our environment might impact autoimmune diseases like systemic sclerosis and lupus, especially in women of African ancestry, to help improve health for those affected.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHARLESTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10871488 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research aims to enhance understanding of how environmental exposures affect autoimmune diseases, particularly systemic sclerosis and lupus, which are more severe in females of African ancestry. By establishing collaborations and study populations, the project will analyze various environmental factors that may contribute to these conditions. The research team will utilize advanced methodologies in exposure science and epidemiology to gather and interpret data, ultimately aiming to improve health outcomes for affected individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are females of African ancestry who are diagnosed with systemic sclerosis or lupus.

Not a fit: Patients with autoimmune diseases not related to environmental exposures or those outside the targeted demographic may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for autoimmune diseases influenced by environmental factors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the role of environmental factors in autoimmune diseases, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

CHARLESTON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Autoimmune Diseases, autoimmune disorder, autoimmunity disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.