Rheumatologic diseases encompass a group of several autoimmune diseases, which result from an overactive immune response of the body against substances and tissues normally present in the body. Examples of rheumatologic diseases are systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), ankylosing spondylitis (AS), juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Other joint-related conditions, such as osteoarthritis, for example, are also researched in the Arizona Arthritis Center.  We are currently performing research that ranges from molecules to potential new therapies to tools.

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Adelman, Ph.D. (SLE, autoimmune disease)

Dr. Miranda Adelman is passionate about dissecting the pathways leading to autoimmune disease.  Her research is based on her own groundbreaking work about the role human endogenous retroviruses play in autoimmunity.  For more information about her research and opportunities in her lab, click on the link above, or contact her here.

The Albani Lab (JIA, RA, AS, and other rheumatic diseases)

The Albani Lab is a dynamic group of visiting researchers, fellows, and staff scientists.  We are currently working on mechanistic studies - that is, understanding the nuts and bolts of why disease occurs, what keeps it going and why therapies work or don't work - in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), ankylosing spondylitis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis and other diseases.  Click on the link above for more information, or contact us here.

Industry-Sponsored Clinical Trials

Integrative Mind-Body Studies

If you have a chronic disease, your conversations with your partner may be more important than you think. Shelley Kasle, Ph.D., research assistant professor at the Arizona Arthritis Center, investigates how relationships impact those with chronic diseases such as arthritis. For more information about her research and research opportunities, click on the link above, or contact her here.

Investigator-initiated studies (IIS)

Pharmaceutical companies often have a portion of their budget set aside for "investigator-initiated studies" (IIS), which are clinical, translational, or basic research studies designed and spearheaded by the investigator and not the company.  Click on the link above for more information about our IIS studies.

Szivek, Ph.D. (Orthopaedic Research)

Dr. John Szivek leads a diverse team with research foci in orthopedic bioengineering topics, including analysis of the weight bearing loads on joints during exercise and the development of innovative tools to regenerate and remodel bone and cartilage.  For more information about his research and opportunities in his lab, click on the link above.