Understanding Sjogren's Syndrome and Saliva Production
Glycolytic metabolites, Calcium entry and Sjogren’s syndrome
This research explores how natural body chemicals and calcium affect saliva production and immune cells in people with Sjögren's syndrome.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11110346 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many people with Sjögren's syndrome experience dry mouth because their salivary glands don't work properly. We know that immune cells and certain antibodies gather in these glands, but we don't fully understand why this happens. Calcium plays a key role in both saliva production and immune cell activity, and this project aims to understand how its movement is affected in Sjögren's syndrome. We are particularly interested in how a natural body chemical called lactate might prevent calcium from entering salivary gland cells, which could lead to stress in these cells. By uncovering these details, we hope to learn more about what causes Sjögren's syndrome and how to improve saliva production.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant for individuals living with primary Sjögren's syndrome who experience salivary gland dysfunction.
Not a fit: Patients without Sjögren's syndrome or similar autoimmune conditions are not the direct focus of this particular research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that help restore saliva production and reduce the impact of Sjögren's syndrome.
How similar studies have performed: While previous observations have linked lactate to immune responses and Sjögren's syndrome, this specific approach to understanding its role in calcium regulation and salivary gland function is exploring new territory.
Where this research is happening
San Antonio, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Science Center — San Antonio, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Singh, Brij B — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Singh, Brij B
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 below.