Using esomeprazole to treat scleroderma
Repurposing esomeprazole for the treatment of scleroderma
This study is exploring whether esomeprazole, a medicine usually for heartburn, can help people with scleroderma by reducing lung inflammation and fibrosis, and you might have a chance to join the trials to see if it works!
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-11091993 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of esomeprazole, a medication typically used for acid-related conditions, to treat scleroderma, a complex connective tissue disorder. The approach involves both systemic administration and a topical formulation called Dermaprazole, targeting the underlying mechanisms of the disease, such as fibroblast overproliferation and collagen buildup. The research utilizes high throughput screening of small molecules to identify effective treatments and has shown promising results in reducing lung inflammation and fibrosis in preliminary studies. Patients may have the opportunity to participate in trials assessing the efficacy of these treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with scleroderma, particularly those with limited cutaneous involvement or severe forms of the disease.
Not a fit: Patients with scleroderma who have not responded to previous antifibrotic therapies or those with advanced organ involvement may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment option that not only alleviates symptoms but also addresses the underlying causes of scleroderma.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using similar approaches to repurpose existing medications for treating fibrotic diseases, indicating potential for this novel application.
Where this research is happening
San Antonio, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Science Center — San Antonio, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ghebre, Yohannes T — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Ghebre, Yohannes T
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.