Understanding the autoimmune causes of fat loss disorders
Autoimmune Basis of Acquired Lipodystrophies
['FUNDING_R01'] · UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-10981898
This study is looking into why some people lose body fat due to autoimmune issues, and it aims to find specific antibodies in their blood that might be causing this problem, using samples from patients and experiments with mice to learn more about what's happening.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DALLAS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10981898 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the autoimmune mechanisms behind acquired lipodystrophies, conditions where patients lose body fat either completely or partially. The study aims to identify specific autoantibodies that target adipocyte proteins, which may contribute to these disorders. Using advanced techniques like Phage ImmunoPrecipitation Sequencing and Human Proteome Microarrays, researchers will analyze serum samples from affected patients to uncover the underlying causes of fat loss. Additionally, the research will explore autoimmune responses in a mouse model to better understand the disease mechanisms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with acquired generalized lipodystrophy or acquired partial lipodystrophy.
Not a fit: Patients with lipodystrophies not related to autoimmune processes may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new diagnostic tools and treatments for patients suffering from autoimmune lipodystrophies.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of identifying autoantibodies in lipodystrophies is novel, similar methodologies have shown promise in understanding other autoimmune diseases.
Where this research is happening
DALLAS, UNITED STATES
- UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER — DALLAS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GARG, ABHIMANYU — UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: GARG, ABHIMANYU
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.
Conditions: Autoimmune Diseases