Understanding how gut microbes affect T cell development in lupus
Official title: Regulation of lupus pathogenesis through modulation of thymic development of pathobiont-specific T cells
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-10983797 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the bacteria in your gut might affect certain immune cells that play a role in lupus, and it aims to help us understand how these changes could lead to new ways to manage the condition, with the help of patients sharing their unique gut health experiences.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $206,489 |
| NIH project number | 5R00AR080207-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10983797 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with lupus, particularly those experiencing symptoms related to immune dysregulation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of lupus or those with other unrelated autoimmune conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of gut microbiota in the development of specific T cells that may influence the progression of lupus, an autoimmune disease. By using advanced techniques to track these T cells in the thymus, the study aims to understand how their development is altered in individuals with lupus. The research will provide insights into the relationship between gut health and immune responses, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies for managing lupus. Patients may be involved in the research to help identify how their unique microbiota affects their immune system.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that target gut microbiota to improve outcomes for lupus patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the link between gut microbiota and autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zegarra Ruiz, Daniel Fernando — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Zegarra Ruiz, Daniel Fernando
Related research
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A doctor-scientist at Yale is studying why certain immune T cells cause skin damage in discoid lupus, with the goal of finding ways to reduce scarring and improve health for patients, especially African American women.
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Researchers at Howard University are studying how immune factors in people with lupus may help limit HIV infection.
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PTPRS and lupus nephritis: a new target to reduce kidney damage in lupus
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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.