Understanding harmful T cells in discoid lupus erythematosus
Official title: Pathogenic T cells in discoid lupus erythematosus
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11074129 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells can cause skin damage in people with discoid lupus erythematosus, especially in African American women, to find new ways to help improve their skin health and overall well-being.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $173,340 |
| NIH project number | 5K08AR081408-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11074129 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are African American women diagnosed with discoid lupus erythematosus who experience significant skin symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of lupus or autoimmune diseases that do not involve skin symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain T cells contribute to the skin damage seen in discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), a painful autoimmune condition that primarily affects African American women. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms by which these T cells survive and cause inflammation in the skin, focusing on a specific gene program that may enhance their harmful effects. By analyzing tissue samples and utilizing advanced techniques, the research seeks to identify potential targets for new treatments that could improve the quality of life for patients suffering from DLE.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that effectively reduce skin damage and improve the quality of life for patients with discoid lupus erythematosus.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding T cell behavior in autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Little, Alicia — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Little, Alicia
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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.