Articles tagged with Lupus
Researchers have deciphered the structure of a complex involved in regulating the immune system, finding new molecular targets for fighting autoimmunity. The discovery has implications for treating autoimmune disorders such as lupus and may lead to the development of new drugs targeting this complex.
A study found that Blacks, Asians/Pacific Islanders, and Hispanics are at increased risk of developing kidney, neurological, and blood problems following a lupus diagnosis. This highlights the need for greater awareness and early treatment in these populations.
Researchers have discovered a way to predict which patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are most likely to respond to therapy by analyzing tissue samples from their kidneys and skin. This breakthrough could lead to personalized treatment plans for SLE patients.
Researchers developed a new testing method using single-cell RNA sequencing to analyze individual cells in diseased organs, revealing genetic glitches that may allow for more effective treatment. The study found promising results in lupus patients and could potentially improve biopsy accuracy for other diseases.
Researchers found that adults with lupus who experienced adverse childhood events report higher disease activity, depression, and poorer overall health. The study suggests that prevention of ACEs and promotion of resilient relationships may help improve outcomes for patients.
Researchers have discovered that amplifying the amount of VGLL3 in skin cells pushes the immune system into overdrive, leading to autoimmune responses. This finding may help explain why women are more likely to develop autoimmune diseases like lupus and could lead to new treatments.
A study has identified early changes in RNA molecules present in the blood that can predict the likelihood of preeclampsia in lupus patients. The researchers also found that failure to modulate immune pathways during healthy pregnancy is associated with complications in pregnant lupus patients.
Researchers found that modulation of immune system during pregnancy is similar in women with and without lupus. In healthy pregnancies, key immune genes are quieted after embryo implantation, while those with preeclampsia or complications show downregulation of these genes.
New research reveals that females with lupus have an abnormal expression of genes linked to their second X chromosome due to incomplete X inactivation in immune system T cells. This abnormality may contribute to the genetic missteps seen in lupus, and changes in nuclear structure may also play a role.
Researchers are developing a system to test multiple biomarkers at once and a smartphone-based analysis and reporting system for disease monitoring and home care. They aim to identify predictive biomarkers to empower patients to monitor their own disease and prevent serious complications.
Researchers at MUSC have shown that restoring the enzyme's ability to produce nitric oxide can help protect against heart disease in lupus patients. The study suggests that this approach could also be relevant to heart disease more broadly, by promoting endothelial cell function and reducing inflammation.
A new study by Marko Radic and colleagues shows that CAR T cells can significantly reduce disease symptoms and progression in mice with lupus, improving lifespan and reducing inflammation. The findings offer a renewed optimism for eliminating B cells as a therapeutic option for lupus.
Researchers at NYU Langone Health have found a strong link between systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and an abnormal mix of bacteria in the gut. The study showed that patients with SLE had significantly higher levels of Ruminococcus gnavus bacteria in their guts, which triggered immune reactions and disease flares.
Researchers are developing a novel detection method for autoantibodies in Lupus patients using top-down mass spectrometry. This may lead to novel biomarkers and early intervention strategies for the disease.
A nationwide cohort study found that timely kidney transplant significantly increases survival in patients with lupus nephritis and end-stage renal disease. The study revealed a 70% reduction in overall risk of death, with benefits observed across various subgroups, including African Americans, Hispanics, Asians, and both sexes.
The Lupus Research Alliance is funding innovative approaches to treating lupus, including 'borrowed' drugs from other diseases and research into harmful immune cells. Seven scientists will receive awards to test promising strategies for treating lupus, with potential breakthroughs in clinical trials.
A Yale-led team of researchers found that a specific bacterium in the gut triggers an immune response leading to autoimmune disease. A high-fiber diet rich in resistant starch can suppress this response by altering gut bacteria and short-chain fatty acid production.
Nir Hacohen and Vijay Kuchroo receive Distinguished Innovator Award for innovative approaches to treating lupus kidney disease and harnessing regulatory T and B cells. Their research aims to stimulate strategies for prevention, treatment, and cure of the chronic autoimmune disease.
Researchers discover Ets1 gene's role in autoimmune disease lupus; found that faulty gene leads to Tfh2 cell expansion and autoantibody production. Blocking IL4 pathway mitigates SLE features.
A novel technology for profiling protein turnover and degradation has been developed, revealing distinct evidence of a signature pattern in autoimmune disorders. The technique focuses on degraded proteins, providing clues about the state of protein monitoring and potentially leading to better diagnostic techniques.
A study at Hospital for Special Surgery found that volunteering in a peer support program for people with lupus has a positive impact on volunteers' ability to cope with their condition. Volunteers gained valuable knowledge about lupus and reported improved mental health, including reduced isolation and depression.
A bioelectronic medicine device has been shown to significantly reduce pain and fatigue in patients with lupus. The study built on previous research and used an external stimulation device to pulse through the ear, resulting in a decrease in symptoms in participants who received real stimulation.
A recent study found that DN2 B cells, a type of immune cell, are expanded in people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and may be responsible for the production of autoantibodies. The research suggests that targeting these cells could provide new insights into treating the disease.
A new study suggests that organs affected by autoimmune disease can actively fight back by exhausting immune cells that cause damage. The research found that these cells exhibit characteristics similar to those used by cancer cells to evade the immune system.
Two variants of autoimmune disease SLE were identified in black Africans, including one previously unacknowledged. This breakthrough enables better management of the disease in southern Africa, where incidence and mortality rates are high.
Researchers developed an imaging signature to detect subclinical cardiac injury in lupus patients, revealing inflammation as the underlying pathophysiological mechanism. The new diagnostic method using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) improves detection and monitoring of heart involvement without radiation or contrast agents.
Researchers found that ACE inhibitors can block the activation of brain cells called microglia, which contribute to memory loss and cognitive impairments in SLE patients. The study suggests that these drugs may be used to preserve the memory of lupus patients.
Researchers have identified 50 stool proteins that are consistently elevated in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. These biomarkers could help diagnose the condition earlier and more accurately, allowing for quicker treatment. The findings also suggest a potential self-care kit for monitoring the disease.
The American College of Rheumatology has received two grants from the Office of Minority Health to increase minority participation in lupus clinical trials. The MIMICT and LuCTT programs will address challenges in recruiting minority populations affected by lupus, utilizing community health workers as referral sources.
A new study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology reveals that cardiac magnetic resonance imaging can detect early indicators of silent heart problems in patients with newly diagnosed lupus. The study found structural and functional changes in the hearts of patients with lupus, which were related to the disease stage.
University of Houston researcher Chandra Mohan receives $2 million grant to examine the connection between lupus and female sex hormones, aiming to improve diagnosis and treatment of the autoimmune disease.
Researchers have discovered that lupus patients' skin cells produce an excessive amount of interferon kappa, leading to increased sensitivity to UV light. The team's findings suggest that blocking this protein may help alleviate photosensitivity symptoms and potentially new treatments for the condition.
Scientists led by George C. Tsokos discover that inhibiting CaMK4 can prevent podocyte damage in lupus-prone mice, reversing classical dogma on inflammation causing kidney damage. The finding opens doors to potential new therapies for autoimmune and non-autoimmune diseases impacting the kidneys.
A phase II clinical study of baricitinib demonstrated significant clinical improvements in SLE patients, while a randomized controlled trial showed the live attenuated shingles vaccine was well-tolerated and effective in preventing infection in stable SLE patients.
A new index identifies individuals at risk for lupus by analyzing IgG, IgM antibodies and C1q levels in blood serum. The findings could help follow at-risk individuals and diagnose early lupus cases.
A recent study of 148 women with lupus found obesity worsens disease activity, depressive symptoms, and pain and fatigue. Lifestyle interventions can reduce health risks and debilitating symptoms in overweight lupus patients.
A new Phase III clinical trial found that belimumab, a monoclonal antibody therapy, significantly reduces SLE disease activity and incidence of severe flares. The treatment's subcutaneous formulation offers an alternative to intravenous administration, making it more accessible to patients.
A new study found the Epstein-Barr virus is linked to seven serious diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), multiple sclerosis (MS), and type 1 diabetes. The virus affects nearly 8 million people in the US, highlighting a common cause of chronic illness.
A novel computational method reveals that EBV protein EBNA2 activates human genes associated with increased risk for autoimmunity, including systemic lupus erythematosus and multiple sclerosis. Researchers propose potential therapies to interrupt this process.
A new study in mice suggests that a weakened gut barrier may contribute to autoimmune disease. Researchers found that certain bacteria, such as <i>Enterococcus gallinarum</i>, can leak out of the intestines and trigger an autoimmune response similar to what's seen in lupus.
The NIH has released datasets for rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus disease tissue, providing clues about potential research targets. Researchers can access the data to explore new approaches to understanding autoimmunity and developing medicines.
A US researcher has received a grant to investigate the role of ALCALM in lupus, a complex autoimmune disease. The study aims to understand how ALCALM drives the immune system to attack healthy tissues, and potentially find new treatments or even a cure for lupus.
Researchers find that environmental triggers play a crucial role in lupus development alongside genetic predisposition. Environmental factors such as particulate air pollution, ultraviolet radiation, and heavy metals can exacerbate the condition.
Researchers at MUSC are testing whether mesenchymal stem cells can help people with treatment-resistant lupus. The study, led by Gary Gilkeson and Diane Kamen, marks a milestone in lupus research and aims to develop better treatments.
A new study of 4886 SLE patients and 24,430 controls found a higher proportion of dementia among SLE patients (1.56% vs. 0.51%) and a 51% higher likelihood of developing dementia after adjustments.
PROMIS is a patient-reported outcomes measurement system that evaluates physical, psychological, and social well-being to provide information on the subjective patient experience. Lupus patients endorse PROMIS assessments as reflecting their experience with lupus, highlighting its potential utility in validating symptoms, tracking dise...
A study by Hospital for Special Surgery found that a free telephone support and education program for people with lupus has a positive impact on their lives. The LupusLine service, established in 1988, provides callers with solid support from trained peer counselors.
Pioneering UH researcher Chandra Mohan proposes a simpler salivary test to diagnose lupus, potentially replacing invasive blood tests. Saliva samples from people with SLE harbor antibodies and proteins that could be used as biomarkers for the disease.
Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) who have low vitamin D levels are at a higher risk of developing end-stage renal disease. Vitamin D supplementation has been shown to reduce urine protein and prevent future renal failure, according to the study's findings.
Research findings from the ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting reveal that obesity is independently associated with worse patient-reported outcomes in women with systemic lupus erythematosus, including increased disease activity and depressive symptoms. Obesity was linked to higher levels of pain and fatigue as well.
The EULAR and ACR presented draft new classification criteria for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) at the 2017 ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting. The updated criteria aim to improve patient identification, trial comparisons, and early disease detection, with a global collaboration involving over 150 investigators and data from 2,200 patients.
A study found that increasing omega-6 to omega-3 ratios in the diet were associated with SLE disease activity. Intake of omega-3 fatty acids was also linked to better sleep quality and trended toward significant decreases in depressive symptoms.
Research found that lupus patients on Medicaid have lower HCQ therapy adherence in areas with high African-American populations, few hospitals, and Health Professional Shortage Areas. This association remained after controlling for individual-level characteristics like poverty and education.
A nationwide population-based study found that death rates from lupus remain high compared to the general population, with significant disparities observed among older persons, females, blacks, and Hispanics. The study suggests that targeted research and public health programs may help address these disparities.
A team of engineers is creating a smartphone-based test kit to detect kidney inflammation in patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. The test uses glow-in-the-dark nanoparticles to measure protein levels in urine, offering a non-invasive and quantitative solution for patients.
A new guideline has been published by the British Society of Rheumatology to improve the diagnosis and treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus). The guideline aims to provide advice on how to diagnose and treat patients with mild, moderate, and severe lupus, reducing disease flares and improving survival rates.
Researchers found that adding healthy bacteria like Lactobacillus can reduce disease symptoms in female mice with lupus. The study suggests that a 'leaky gut' condition may contribute to the disease, and testosterone suppression may affect probiotic effects.
A study of 54,763 women found a nearly three-fold elevated risk of lupus among those with probable PTSD and more than two-fold higher risk among those who experienced traumatic events. The findings contribute to growing evidence that psychosocial trauma affects autoimmune disease.
A study found that regular exercise significantly decreased inflammatory damage to the kidneys in mice with lupus, while stress had the opposite effect. Researchers are seeking funding for a larger human trial to test the benefits of daily moderate exercise and stress management for patients.
New research reveals striking racial and ethnic disparities in lupus incidence and prevalence, with higher rates found in Black, Hispanic, and Asian populations. The findings emphasize the need for vigilant diagnosis and prompt care for these groups, particularly in cases of arthritis, rashes, and kidney disease symptoms.