NIH-funded research U01 cooperative agreement

Understanding how some people develop systemic lupus erythematosus from mild autoimmune symptoms.

Official title: Mechanisms of New-Onset Autoimmunity/Longitudinal Immune Systems Analysis (MONA-LISA)

Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-11053509 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how some people with mild or no autoimmune symptoms might develop lupus, and it aims to find out what makes them different from those who don’t, so we can create better ways to diagnose and treat the condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUt Southwestern Medical Center
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Dallas, United States)
Project startMarch 22, 2023
Project endFebruary 29, 2028
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$1,252,131
NIH project number5U01AI176135-03
Project IDNIH-11053509 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic autoimmunity who may be at risk for developing systemic lupus erythematosus.

Less likely to help

Patients with established systemic lupus erythematosus or those without any autoimmune symptoms are unlikely to benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the immunological mechanisms that lead individuals with mild or no symptoms of autoimmunity to develop systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). By analyzing clinical data and biological samples collected during a previous clinical trial, the study aims to identify differences in immune responses, genetics, and metabolism between those who progress to SLE and those who do not. The goal is to develop better diagnostic tools and potential treatments to prevent the progression of autoimmune conditions, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and prevention strategies for individuals at risk of developing systemic lupus erythematosus.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding autoimmune diseases through similar longitudinal analyses, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • Ut Southwestern Medical Center
    Dallas, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Karp, David R — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
  • Study coordinator: Karp, David R

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.