Women are more likely to suffer from autoimmune diseases than men, in large part because the X chromosome contains many immune-related genes, and women have two X chromosomes while men only have one. When women with an autoimmune condition are pregnant, their symptoms often lessen or disappear completely. This is believed to be due to a type of estrogen, which is released in large amounts during the late stages of pregnancy to help the mother’s immune system tolerate the baby. While this type of estrogen is a promising treatment for autoimmune diseases, it requires a long-term delivery method to ensure that patients stick to their treatment plans and minimize side effects.
This project is encapsulating a type of estrogen in special hydrogels that release the hormone steadily over a longer period of time. This method aims to provide consistent relief from autoimmune symptoms with fewer side effects, making it easier for countless women to manage their conditions effectively.