My research is focused on developing and testing novel strategies for monitoring autoimmune diseases. We use custom, high-throughput, multiplex assays to detect soluble mediators of inflammation and autoantibodies in human samples, then apply mathematical modeling methods to identify biomarkers for impending changes in disease activity. We also study unique preclinical patient cohorts to identify molecular and proteomic signatures that are dysregulated prior to SLE classification, in some cases years before clinical disease onset, when patients are still asymptomatic. This work builds on my postdoctoral studies in the lab of Gail Bishop, PhD, at the University of Iowa. By using multiparameter approaches to detect soluble biomarkers in cell lines, a mouse model of inflammatory arthritis, and human samples, I identified new functions and mechanisms of CD40 and identified environmental exposures that influence the regulation of immune responses relevant to autoimmune disease. Since joining OMRF, I have applied this expertise to evaluating pathogenic mechanisms, identifying new biomarkers of disease pathogenesis, developing diagnostic and prognostic algorithms, and examining the initial events in systemic autoimmunity and other inflammatory diseases. I use the information from these studies to develop predictive tests and algorithms that accurately distinguish patients at high risk of developing SLE, and to predict increased disease activity in patients with established disease. The ultimate goal of this research is to mitigate or prevent further organ damage caused by lupus.