TLR-driven nerve fiber loss in autoimmune-related neuropathy
Official title: TLR-mediated Small Fiber Neuropathy
Funded at University of Kansas Medical Center · NIH-11382184 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A research project tests how immune signals in the skin’s nerves may cause loss of tiny nerve fibers in people with autoimmune-related neuropathy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kansas Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kansas City, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $389,893 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS144393-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11382184 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with autoimmune-related small fiber neuropathy or related sensory symptoms may be eligible for future studies or clinical trials.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without autoimmune-related neuropathy or lacking specific molecular targets may not benefit from this mechanistic research.
What this research studies
This NIH grant supports studies on why small fiber nerves in the skin deteriorate in autoimmune conditions. Researchers will look at how Toll-like receptors on sensory neurons respond to danger signals, potentially causing nerve fiber loss seen in patients. The work will use skin biopsies, cellular models, and animal experiments to map changes in metabolism and signaling that lead to axon degeneration. The goal is to connect immune triggers with measurable nerve loss and understand the sequence of events that produce symptoms like burning and tingling. Results could point to new ways to protect or restore epidermal nerve fibers in affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could identify targets to prevent or reduce loss of skin nerve fibers and alleviate symptoms for patients with autoimmune-related neuropathy.
How similar studies have gone: Prior research has shown that certain inflammatory signals can influence nerve integrity, but the exact role of TLRs and metabolic shifts in epidermal nerve fiber loss is still being explored.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kansas Medical Center
Kansas City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wright, Douglas E — University of Kansas Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Wright, Douglas 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.