Investigating cholesterol balance in rheumatoid arthritis and lupus patients

Atherosclerosis in RA and Lupus: Restoring Cholesterol Balance

Observational NYU Langone Health · NCT01180361

This study is testing how rheumatoid arthritis and lupus affect cholesterol levels and heart health to find better treatments for patients with these conditions.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment160 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorNYU Langone Health Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsmethotrexate
Locations1 site (Mineola, New York)
Trial IDNCT01180361 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to understand how rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) increase the risk of heart attacks by affecting cholesterol metabolism. Researchers will analyze blood samples from patients to identify specific components that contribute to atherosclerosis, focusing on immune and inflammatory factors. The study will also explore potential therapeutic approaches using adenosine to restore normal cholesterol outflow in artery cells. By examining the effects of SLE and RA plasma on cultured cells, the study seeks to uncover mechanisms that could lead to improved cardiovascular health in these patients.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 18-65 with a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus.

Not a fit: Patients currently on methotrexate, statin therapy, or biological therapies may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to new preventative strategies for cardiovascular disease in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results in understanding cardiovascular risks in autoimmune conditions, but this specific approach is novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Males and females age 18-65

Exclusion Criteria:

* No methotrexate or statin therapy in prior 3 months.
* Not on biological therapies.

Where this trial is running

Mineola, New York

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Rheumatoid Arthritisrheumatoid arthritissystemic lupus erythematosusatherosclerosisadenosine
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.