Understanding how immune responses interact with a key protein in lupus

Delineating the interplay between nucleic-acid-dependent phase separation and immune responses against cGAS in SLE

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11039063

This study is looking at how a protein called cGAS affects the immune system in people with lupus, aiming to understand why some patients develop certain antibodies, which could help improve treatments for the disease, and we may ask patients to share blood samples to help with this research.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11039063 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of a protein called cGAS in the immune response of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a complex autoimmune disease. The study aims to explore how cGAS interacts with DNA and triggers immune responses that may contribute to the disease. By examining the molecular mechanisms involved, the researchers hope to uncover why some patients develop autoantibodies against cGAS, which could lead to better understanding and treatment options for SLE. Patients may be involved in providing blood samples to help identify these immune responses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus, particularly those experiencing active disease.

Not a fit: Patients with other autoimmune diseases or those not diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and therapies for patients suffering from systemic lupus erythematosus.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses in autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Autoimmune Diseases
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.