Understanding the role of TAM receptors in lupus-related kidney inflammation.

Disease - Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

Lead applicant -  Dr Christine Chew

Organisation - University of Manchester

Type of grant - Clinical Research Fellowship

Status of grant - Active

Amount of the original award - £223,269.08

Start date - 04 January 2017

Reference - 21370

Public Summary

What are the aims of this research?

TAM receptors are important proteins that help immune cells to remove harmful material from the blood. Research has shown that abnormal TAM receptors are present in lupus, but it’s not clear what role these proteins play in kidney inflammation. This research aims to find out if and how abnormal TAM receptors can cause kidney inflammation in lupus. Researchers will explore how they remove harmful material from the blood and how they respond to kidney inflammation.

Why is this research important?

Lupus is a long-term condition that can cause inflammation in the skin, organs, and in various other places in the body. People with lupus, including children, can experience problems with their kidneys, including inflammation that can lead to serious complications. Current treatments include medication, dialysis and kidney transplantation, but all can cause unwanted side effects.

This research will explore the role of TAM receptors in kidney inflammation in lupus. Researchers aim to compare the role of TAM receptors in children with lupus compared to healthy children, examine the role of TAM receptors in kidney cells that can be damaged in lupus, and observe how TAM receptors respond to inflammatory signals produced by the immune system.

How will the findings benefit patients?

It is hoped that this research will bring us closer to understanding the processes that cause kidney inflammation in lupus. This may help improve management of the condition and quality of life for children with lupus. Ultimately it may highlight biological processes that could be the target for new treatments in the future, to prevent serious kidney complications.