Understanding cognitive issues in children with lupus
Official title: Biobehavioral Basis and Outcomes of Cognitive Dysfunction in Childhood-Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Funded at Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-10987200 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE) affects kids' thinking and learning, using special brain imaging tools to understand what’s happening in their brains, so we can find better ways to help them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $194,700 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AR083599-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10987200 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus who are experiencing cognitive difficulties.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus or those who do not exhibit cognitive dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates cognitive dysfunction in children with childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE), a condition that can significantly affect their mental health and daily functioning. The study aims to explore the underlying neurobiological mechanisms of cognitive dysfunction using advanced imaging techniques such as fNIRS, fMRI, and diffusion tensor imaging. By examining brain structures and functions, the research seeks to identify how inflammation and other factors contribute to cognitive challenges in these children. Ultimately, the goal is to improve diagnosis and treatment strategies for affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of cognitive dysfunction in children with lupus, improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated a link between cognitive dysfunction and neurobiological changes in lupus patients, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Upadhyay, Jaymin a — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Upadhyay, Jaymin a
Related research
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This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the brain might affect thinking and memory problems in people with lupus, and it aims to find out if understanding these cells can help improve cognitive function for patients.
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A study in people with lupus looks at tiny RNA pieces that may spark inflammation, to understand if they drive disease activity.
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.