Research Projects

Core Research Areas

Future Directions

Our laboratory remains at the forefront of lupus research, continuously expanding our understanding of disease mechanisms while maintaining a steadfast commitment to translating discoveries into meaningful improvements in patient care. We collaborate with clinical partners, pharmaceutical companies, and international research networks to accelerate the development of next-generation therapies that will transform the landscape of SLE treatment.

Through this integrated approach combining basic science discovery, translational research, and clinical application, we aim to fundamentally change the prognosis for individuals living with systemic lupus erythematosus.

In the laboratory, Prof. Putterman’s team investigates the complex mechanisms underlying autoimmunity, with a specific focus on the pathogenesis of kidney and neuropsychiatric manifestations associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Our research examines critical components such as anti-DNA antibodies, macrophages, and cytokines, with the goal of developing novel and effective therapeutic approaches for lupus.

We are actively seeking new treatment agents and strategies that can effectively improve the condition of SLE patients, improve their prognosis and quality of life, and extend their lifespan.
Regarding neuropsychiatric symptoms related to SLE, we are exploring innovative drug delivery methods to bypass the blood-brain barrier. Additionally, we are committed to identifying informative biomarkers that could enhance the diagnosis and monitoring of SLE, paving the way for future advancements in patient care.

Autoimmune Pathogenesis

Our team examines the fundamental mechanisms driving SLE pathogenesis, focusing on the intricate interplay between key molecular players:

• Anti-DNA antibodies: Investigating their role in tissue damage and organ-specific manifestations

• Macrophage dysfunction: Elucidating how altered macrophage polarization and clearance mechanisms contribute to chronic inflammation

• Cytokine networks: Mapping dysregulated inflammatory cascades that perpetuate autoimmune responses

Renal and Neuropsychiatric Manifestations

We investigate two of the most severe and life-threatening complications
of SLE:

Lupus Nephritis: Understanding the molecular mechanisms of kidney damage and identifying therapeutic targets to prevent progression to end-stage renal disease.

Neuropsychiatric SLE (NPSLE): Exploring how autoantibodies and inflammatory mediators breach the blood-brain barrier to cause cognitive dysfunction, mood disorders, and other neurological symptoms

Therapeutic Innovation

Novel Treatment Development

Our laboratory is committed to translating mechanistic insights into clinical applications through:

1. Development of targeted immunomodulatory agents that address
   specific pathogenic pathways

2. Investigating the role of combination therapies to improve treatment efficacy
   while minimizing adverse effects

3. Exploration of precision medicine approaches tailored to individual
   patient profiles

Blood-Brain Barrier Drug Delivery

Recognizing the unique challenges of treating NPSLE, we are pioneering innovative drug delivery systems designed to:

1. Overcome blood-brain barrier restrictions through novel nanoparticle formulations

2. Develop targeted delivery mechanisms that concentrate therapeutic agents in affected brain regions

3. Create sustained-release platforms for continuous neuroprotection

Biomarker Discovery and Clinical Translation

Diagnostic and Prognostic Markers

Our biomarker research program aims to:

1. Identify novel serum and tissue-based markers for early SLE detection

2. Develop predictive biomarkers for organ-specific complications

3. Create monitoring tools to assess treatment response and disease progression

4. Establish personalized risk stratification models

Clinical Impact

Through rigorous biomarker validation studies, we strive to:

1. Reduce diagnostic delays that often plague SLE patients

2. Enable earlier intervention to prevent irreversible organ damage

3. Optimize treatment selection based on individual disease characteristics

4. Improve long-term outcomes and quality of life for patients