Impact - Fighting Lupus | Lupus Research Alliance

Improving Patient Outcomes

As of 2018, the Lupus Research Alliance has funded more than $200 million in support of innovative lupus research, leading to key discoveries that are improving diagnosis and treatment, while helping researchers find the mechanisms to prevent and cure the disease. With our comprehensive grant programs, we help scientists pursue new ideas and advance proven approaches that improve treatment.

With our support, pioneering investigations have led to significant discoveries and even forged new ways lupus research is conducted.

Genes

Scientists have uncovered several of the genes responsible for lupus – the first time direct genetic links have been found. Now investigators around the world have a roadmap for targeting these specific genes that may predispose individuals to the disease.

Technology

Researchers are using a new technology called the ImmunoChip to study hundreds of thousands of genes and their variants in a large number of participants, to gain a better understanding of the role genes play.

Cells

An early exploration of B Cells (antibodies that fight infection) has opened an avenue of investigation with enormous potential. In fact, Benlysta®, the first new lupus drug to be approved in over 50 years by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, is an outcome of this study.

Medication

For the first time in decades, many promising drugs are in the research and testing pipeline, designed to treat lupus and its complications more safely and effectively.

Diagnosis

Lupus researchers are also developing new approaches to diagnose and monitor the disease, so symptoms can be treated faster and more effectively.