Understanding how X chromosome inactivation affects autoimmune disease in women
Official title: Defining the Role of Dynamic X Chromosome Inactivation in Age-Associated B Cells for Female-Biased Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10914657 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the X chromosome might play a role in lupus, a disease that mostly affects women, by checking how certain genes work in immune cells called B cells, to help us understand why more women get this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $36,512 |
| NIH project number | 5F30AI174437-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10914657 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus, particularly those with varying numbers of X chromosomes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are male or do not have systemic lupus erythematosus may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of X chromosome inactivation in the development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a condition that predominantly affects women. It focuses on how the expression of genes on the X chromosome may contribute to the disease, particularly in B cells, which are crucial for immune response. The study examines the dynamic nature of X chromosome inactivation in these cells and how it may be disrupted in individuals with SLE, potentially leading to increased disease activity. By exploring these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover new insights into the sex bias observed in autoimmune diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for women suffering from systemic lupus erythematosus.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of examining dynamic X chromosome inactivation in B cells is novel, related research has shown that understanding X-linked gene expression can provide insights into autoimmune diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lovell, Claudia Darnell — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Lovell, Claudia Darnell
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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.