Understanding a new pathway in lupus skin inflammation
Hippo signaling as a critical regulator of lupus keratinocyte dysfunction
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · NIH-11101239
This research explores a new biological pathway, called Hippo signaling, that may contribute to skin inflammation and photosensitivity in people with lupus.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11101239 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
People with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) often experience skin inflammation and sensitivity to light, driven by certain immune signals called type I interferons. While new medications can block these signals, they may have side effects and only offer moderate relief. This project aims to uncover what truly controls these inflammatory responses in lupus skin, focusing on a previously unrecognized pathway called Hippo signaling. By understanding how this pathway works in skin cells, we hope to find new ways to target the root causes of lupus skin problems more precisely, potentially avoiding the side effects of current treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for patients living with systemic lupus erythematosus, particularly those who experience skin inflammation and photosensitivity.
Not a fit: Patients without systemic lupus erythematosus or related autoimmune skin conditions would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new, more targeted treatments for skin inflammation and photosensitivity in lupus patients, with fewer side effects than current therapies.
How similar studies have performed: This project introduces novel preliminary data on the Hippo pathway's role in lupus skin, building on recent findings in cancer research, making this a new area of exploration for lupus.
Where this research is happening
ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR — ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KAHLENBERG, JOANNE MICHELLE — UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR
- Study coordinator: KAHLENBERG, JOANNE MICHELLE
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 below.