I conduct research in sex bias in systemic autoimmune disorders with focus on Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). In investigating the role of estrogen receptors and estrogen in SLE and other autoimmune diseases, our team has identified novel targets of estrogen that are significantly up-regulated in SLE patients and play a critical role in regulating inflammation. The long-term goal of this project is to elucidate the role of estrogen and its receptors in the pathogenesis of SLE and identify biomarkers that will define women who are at high risk of developing lupus. We are also examining the role of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and antibodies to cell membrane in myositis. Moreover, we are studying by RNA sequencing non-coding short RNA that is contained in exosomes from SLE and rheumatoid arthritis patients to identify novel therapeutic targets and disease activity markers. I conduct research in sex bias in systemic autoimmune disorders with focus on Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). In investigating the role of estrogen receptors and estrogen in SLE and other autoimmune diseases, our team has identified novel targets of estrogen that are significantly up-regulated in SLE patients and play a critical role in regulating inflammation. The long-term goal of this project is to elucidate the role of estrogen and its receptors in the pathogenesis of SLE and identify biomarkers that will define women who are at high risk of developing lupus. We are also examining the role of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and antibodies to cell membrane in myositis. Moreover, we are studying by RNA sequencing non-coding short RNA that is contained in exosomes from SLE and rheumatoid arthritis patients to identify novel therapeutic targets and disease activity markers.
Dr. Jarjour’s laboratory focuses on research activities examining sex bias in lupus and other autoimmune diseases and on how estrogen impacts the immune response. In investigating the role of estrogen receptors and estrogen in SLE and other autoimmune diseases, Dr. Jarjour has demonstrated that estrogen up-regulates numerous genes that regulate the immune response. In recent publications, the team identified two novel targets of estrogen that are significantly up-regulated in SLE patients and play a critical role in regulating inflammation, specifically ZAS3 and TLR8. The research team is currently exploring functional consequences of this up-regulation. The longterm goal of this project is to elucidate the role of estrogen and its receptors in the pathogenesis of SLE and identify biomarkers that will define women who are at high risk of developing lupus. Read our ZAS3 and TLR8 papers.
Another area of research interest for Dr. Jarjour is the development and validation of predictive biomarkers in SLE. To facilitate new collaborative efforts to address this very important translational area, Dr. Jarjour led an international meeting that was held in Washington DC.