Understanding how autoantibodies in scleroderma relate to cancer risk
Official title: Autoantibodies define scleroderma subgroups with distinct relationships to cancer
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10981317 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune markers in people with scleroderma might help us understand their risk of developing cancer, so we can better support patients based on their unique profiles.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | April 9, 2018 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $741,025 |
| NIH project number | 2R01AR073208-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-10981317 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with scleroderma who have specific autoantibody profiles.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with scleroderma who do not have detectable autoantibodies or those with other autoimmune conditions unrelated to scleroderma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the connections between scleroderma and cancer by examining specific autoantibodies in patients. It aims to identify different subgroups of scleroderma patients based on their autoantibody profiles, which may indicate varying risks for developing cancer. By analyzing data and biospecimens from well-characterized cohorts, the study seeks to determine how these autoantibodies can be used for cancer risk stratification and to understand the broader implications of autoimmunity in cancer emergence. Patients may be monitored over time to see how their immune responses and clinical outcomes change in relation to cancer diagnosis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cancer risk assessment and tailored management strategies for scleroderma patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated promising connections between autoantibodies and cancer risk in autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shah, Ami Aalok — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Shah, Ami Aalok
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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.