Sex Differences in Cellular Immune Profiles in Psoriatic Arthritis
Principal Investigator: Steven Dang, B.Sc.
Institution: Women's College Hospital
Grant Mechanism: Early Career Research Grant
Funding Amount: $50,000
Project Start Date: August 1, 2024
Project End Date: July 31, 2025
Status: Active
Keywords: Psoriatic Arthritis, Biomarkers
Project Summary:
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) affects males and females differently, with females more likely to stop drug therapy earlier due to poor effectiveness and increased side effects. We aim to identify immune and inflammatory factors behind the differences in the disease course and treatment response between males and females with PsA. Using advanced mass cytometry technology, which will help to characterize the type of immune cells involved in PsA, we will analyze blood samples from patients before and after they begin treatment. We will study whether there are differences between the sexes in the immune cells that determine response to treatment. This knowledge will support the development of sex-specific tools to improve the lives of PsA patients.
How will your project help improve the lives of the 125 million affected by psoriatic disease?
Psoriatic arthritis affects males and females equally, yet differences exist in the clinical manifestations and treatment outcomes. The biological mechanisms driving the differences remain unknown. By elucidating the mechanisms in this project, we aim to improve our understanding of the disease in males and females and to identify new targets that can lead us toward developing sex-specific tools to improve patient outcomes.
Why is psoriatic disease research important to you, personally? What role will this award play in your research efforts or career development?
Psoriatic disease research holds a deep personal significance to me, as I have seen the challenges it presents in my family. The opportunity to conduct this research is both a tremendous honor and a privilege. This award represents a pivotal milestone in my career as a budding graduate student. The award will support my ongoing efforts to elucidate the biological mechanisms behind psoriatic arthritis in males and females, with the aim to improve patient outcomes.
Researcher Profile:
Steven is a Ph.D. student at the Institute of Medical Science at the University of Toronto. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science from the University of Alberta in 2019 and has worked as a Medical Laboratory Technologist for five years. His research focuses on characterizing the biological differences between males and females with psoriatic arthritis.