Understanding the effects of COVID-19 vaccines on patients with autoimmune diseases

Evaluating Clinical and Immunological Consequences of SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination in Rheumatic Disease

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10793472

This study is looking at how COVID-19 vaccines affect people with autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and systemic sclerosis, to see how well the vaccine works for them and if it might cause any issues with their condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-10793472 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how SARS-CoV-2 vaccination impacts patients with autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic sclerosis. It focuses on the immune responses generated by the vaccine and the potential risks of exacerbating existing autoimmune conditions or triggering new ones. By analyzing the relationship between vaccine-induced antibodies and autoimmune responses, the study aims to fill the knowledge gap left by previous vaccine trials that excluded these patient populations. Participants will be monitored for their immune responses and any changes in their autoimmune status following vaccination.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis, or idiopathic inflammatory myopathy.

Not a fit: Patients without autoimmune diseases or those who are not receiving SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved vaccination strategies for patients with autoimmune diseases, ensuring their safety and health.

How similar studies have performed: While there is ongoing research into vaccine responses in autoimmune patients, this specific investigation into SARS-CoV-2 vaccination effects is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions autoimmune disorderautoimmunity diseaseAutoimmune Diseases
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.