We are conducting a research study on how psoriasis might be caused or worsened by high levels of the blood sugar-lowering hormone insulin. We are seeking people with plaque psoriasis, ages 18-65, who are overweight or obese with a body mass index of 25-35. Participants will have blood drawn and small skin biopsies taken from psoriasis plaques and nearby…
The purpose of this study is to examine the causes and pathology of alopecia areata and other hair and skin disorders. Skin biopsies and blood and/or clinical information collected in the study will be used for research aiming at developing new options for the treatment of alopecia areata and other skin and hair disorders.
Genetic studies help us to understand why some people develop certain diseases while others don't and also provide important clues about how best to treat the disease.
We are inviting patients with active Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) to help us better understand how treatment options affect inflammation in soft tissues. With a combination of blood work, a full-body FDG PET-CT scan, questionnaires, and a soft tissue biopsy (from an area around the belly button), we hope to see how RA interacts with these multiple areas of…
This study focuses on the effects of aerobic conditioning on cognition and brain activity. Eligible participants will complete an exercise stress test, MRI, and cognitive testing session at the beginning and end of the study. Once participants complete the first set of appointments, they will be randomly assigned to one of two conditions for 12-weeks.…
The study aims to compare the effect two different RA treatments on cardiovascular health in patients who are considering a treatment change. The study is recruiting patients who are only taking methotrexate and are switching treatment due to a lack of improvement. The trial will randomize participants to take a TNF inhibitor (Enbrel or Humira) in addition…
This study focuses on the effects of aerobic conditioning on cardiovascular function and inflammatory response. Eligible participants will complete an exercise stress test, laboratory visit, and cognitive testing session at three specific time points over the course of the study. Once the initial set of appointments is complete, participants are randomly…
We are doing a research study to learn more about why people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are prone to heart disease. We are recruiting patients diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis without a personal history of heart disease. This study involves one initial full visit as described below, and a brief follow up visit that will take place approximately 2 or…