Sjogren's Syndrome Research

Sjogren's Syndrome Research: An Overview

Doctors and scientists are hard at work conducting Sjogren's syndrome research. Research studies are designed to answer important questions and to find out whether new approaches are safe and effective. Sjogren's syndrome research already has led to many advances, and researchers continue to search for more effective methods for dealing with the disease.

 

Current Area of Focus for Sjogren's Syndrome Research

Through basic research on the immune system, autoimmunity, genetics, and connective tissue diseases, researchers continue to learn more about Sjogren's syndrome. As they get a better understanding of the genes involved and which environmental factors trigger disease and how, they'll be able to develop more effective treatment for Sjogren's syndrome. For example, gene therapy studies suggest that we may some day be able to insert molecules into salivary glands that will control inflammation and prevent their destruction. Other Sjogren's syndrome research focuses on how the immune and hormonal systems work in people who have the condition, and on the natural history of the disease (learning how it affects people by studying those who have it).

 

Sjogren's syndrome research scientists are also looking into the use of the salivary stimulant pilocarpine for dry eyes. Other researchers are testing immune-modulating drugs to treat the glandular inflammation. A drug called cevimeline has recently been approved for treating dry mouth, and work on developing an artificial salivary gland is in progress.