Spring 2025 Digital edition
Revelations
How sex-based differences shape the immune system—and what these discoveries mean for the future of medicine
Just four years ago, scientists at La Jolla Institute for Immunology (LJI) launched the Center for Sex-Based Differences in the Immune System. This research hub brought together LJI scientists, collaborators, and supporters with a common goal: to investigate differences in how men’s and women’s bodies fight disease.
LJI Associate Professor Sonia Sharma, Ph.D., who is director of the Center, says this effort has revealed “profound” differences between male and female immune systems. The scientific community is now poised to translate those findings into clinical treatments.
FeAtured articles
For some women, one mosquito bite leads to chronic pain
Why would would a viral infection spark symptoms of an autoimmune disease?
T cells can sense testosterone—What does that mean for prostate cancer therapies?
LJI Assistant Professor Miguel Reina-Campos, Ph.D., uses new tools to capture immune cells, hormones, and prostate cancer cells in action.
More from this issue
COVID-19 causes more severe disease in men. This tricky enzyme may be partially to blame.
“This study illustrated a profound difference between the immune systems of men and women.”
When scientific collaboration makes history
LJI and Kyowa Kirin's 35-year partnership has fueled innovation and advanced medicine.
Event highlight: LEAD Day
Celebrating LJI's inaugural Lectures, Empowerment, and Awareness for Autoimmune Disease (LEAD) Day — made possible by the generous support of the Global Autoimmune Institute.
Up and coming: A new chapter for women’s health
LJI researchers are exploring the effects of hormonal contraceptives on immune responses—and the immune system's role in endometriosis. They're hearing from women along the way.
Betrayed by bile ducts? LJI researchers look for clues to treating a mysterious autoimmune disease
Autoimmune disease is much more common in women than men. Scientists aren't sure why. A strange illness that strikes the bile duct network may provide important clues.
Recapping our latest ‘Life Without Disease’ gathering
Highlights from our Apr. 17 Life Without Disease Seminar.
Articles from Past Issues
Architects of fundamental science
LJI discoveries have led to an investigational therapy that aims to bring relief to patients with atopic dermatitis. This breakthrough was possible thanks to hardworking researchers and steady support for fundamental science.
Processing power
Meet the LJI scientists changing medical research through artificial intelligence
At home in your organs
LJI scientists capture a new view of the cells that keep you healthy
A legacy of quiet generosity
Sharing a profound gratitude for Dick & Marla Hess
Letter from the President: Fighting disease is a national effort
"LJI supporters are leaders in our shared mission to fight disease and ensure humanity can benefit from cutting-edge medical advances."
What the nose knows
Dr. Carolyn Moderbacher is pioneering a new technique to study lupus using nasal swabs
A place in immunology history
After 29 years, Dr. Michael Croft will retire from the LJI faculty
Endowment: LJI’s edge for the future
The next 40 years begin now
Empowering solutions in autoimmune research
LJI receives critical support to help patients with autoimmune diseases