Understanding how skin immune cells affect autoimmune responses in lupus
Official title: Langerhans cells and lymphatic regulation in immunity
Funded at Hospital for Special Surgery · NIH-10945488 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain skin cells and the flow of lymphatic fluid affect people with lupus, especially how these factors might lead to skin problems and flare-ups when exposed to sunlight, with the goal of finding new ways to help improve treatment for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Hospital for Special Surgery NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $788,508 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AR084694-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10945488 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus, particularly those experiencing skin-related symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus or those not experiencing skin symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of Langerhans cells and lymphatic function in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a condition characterized by skin sensitivity and autoimmune responses. The study aims to uncover how compromised lymphatic flow contributes to skin inflammation and systemic disease flares, particularly in response to ultraviolet radiation. By examining the mechanisms that regulate lymphatic function and the interactions between skin cells and immune responses, the research seeks to provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for improving patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing skin inflammation and systemic symptoms in lupus patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of lymphatic function in autoimmune diseases, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Hospital for Special Surgery
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lu, Theresa T. — Hospital for Special Surgery
- Study coordinator: Lu, Theresa T.
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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.