Understanding how UV light affects skin inflammation in lupus patients
Official title: Dissecting the Stromal-Immune Interactions that Lead to Photosensitivity (Project 2)
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11009439 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how UV light can cause skin flare-ups in people with lupus, and it aims to find ways to stop this from happening so you can enjoy the sun without worry.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | June 5, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $486,221 |
| NIH project number | 1P01AI179251-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11009439 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus or cutaneous lupus erythematosus who experience photosensitivity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without lupus or those who do not experience photosensitivity may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how ultraviolet (UV) light triggers skin inflammation in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE). By examining the interactions between immune and skin cells, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to inflammatory responses after UV exposure. The research will utilize advanced techniques, including integrative omics, to analyze patient samples and identify potential therapeutic targets. The ultimate goal is to develop strategies to prevent UV light from causing flares in lupus patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help lupus patients manage their photosensitivity and reduce skin inflammation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses in lupus, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kahlenberg, Joanne Michelle — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Kahlenberg, Joanne Michelle
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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.