Understanding how a specific protein called VGLL3 contributes to lupus, especially why it affects more women
Role of the gender biased transcription factor VGLL3 in promoting autoimmune responses in SLE
This project explores why lupus, an autoimmune disease, affects many more women than men by looking at a specific protein called VGLL3.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11143847 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We know that lupus affects far more women than men, but the exact reasons are still unclear. This project looks at a protein called VGLL3, which seems to play a key role in how the immune system behaves differently in men and women. Researchers are trying to understand how VGLL3 might cause the body to attack itself, leading to lupus symptoms. They are using advanced laboratory models to see how VGLL3 influences the immune system and contributes to the disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, particularly women, could potentially benefit from future treatments developed from this foundational understanding.
Not a fit: Patients whose autoimmune disease is not related to the VGLL3 pathway or gender-biased immune responses may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to treat lupus by targeting the VGLL3 pathway, especially for women.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of sex chromosomes and hormones in autoimmune diseases has been studied, this project explores a novel mechanism involving autosomal genes and the VGLL3 protein.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gudjonsson, Johann Eli — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Gudjonsson, Johann Eli
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.