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Lupus Research Institute-funded study points to increased risk for lupus in men

A recent study funded by the Lupus Research Institute has discovered a link between an X-linked TLR7 gene variant and an increased risk of developing lupus in men. The research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, provides strong evidence that alterations in the TLR7 gene can promote lupus in humans.

SourceLupus Research Alliance·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 2, 2010

Black women with SLE develop cardiovascular disease at early age

A recent study found significant racial disparities in the age of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients at the time of hospital admission for cardiovascular disease (CVD) events and CVD-related death. Black women were youngest to both be admitted with CVD and to have an in-hospital death due to CVD.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateAug 19, 2010

Rescue NET for lupus patients

Scientists discovered that Lupus patients lack or have blocked DNase-1, an enzyme degrading NETs, leading to their accumulation in the kidneys. This impairs NET degradation, increasing kidney failure risk. A new test based on this finding may enable early diagnosis and treatment.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 3, 2010

Scripps research scientists find key culprits in lupus

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have identified three proteins called Toll-like receptors as necessary for the autodestruction that occurs in autoimmune diseases like lupus. The study suggests that these TLRs may be good targets for therapy, potentially leading to new treatments for lupus and other autoimmune diseases.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 29, 2009

Development of DNA drugs gives hope to lupus patients

Researchers have developed DNA-like compounds that effectively inhibit cells responsible for chronic autoimmune condition lupus. The compounds, known as class R inhibitory oligonucleotides (INH-ODNs), selectively reduce the activity of autoreactive B cells and dendritic cells, delaying death and reducing kidney damage in mice with lupus.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalArthritis Research & Therapy·DateMay 27, 2009

Decrease in sense of smell seen in lupus patients

A study found that systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients have significant olfactory deficits compared to healthy controls. Patients with more active disease and past neuropsychiatric SLE manifestations had lower total TDI scores, suggesting an immune-mediated mechanism.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateApr 30, 2009

Oral contraceptives associated with increased risk of lupus

A large observational study found that combined oral contraceptives are associated with an increased risk of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), particularly among women who started using them recently. The study suggests a possible dose-response effect of estrogen on SLE onset.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateApr 7, 2009

Rituximab reduces kidney inflammation in patients with lupus

A study published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society Nephrology suggests that rituximab can significantly improve kidney health in patients with severe lupus nephritis. The immunosuppressive drug showed promise in reducing inflammation and improving renal outcomes in those who did not respond to conventional therapy.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 4, 2009

'Multi-target' immune therapy improves outcomes of severe lupus nephritis

A new treatment combining immunosuppressant drugs targeting different immune system parts improves remission rates and reduces side effects for patients with severe lupus nephritis. The therapy shows superior results compared to traditional treatments, achieving complete remission in 65% of patients within nine months.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJul 2, 2008

Autoantibodies and neuropsychiatric events in lupus

A global research alliance found associations between anti-ribosomal P antibodies and psychosis, as well as lupus anticoagulant and cerebrovascular disease in SLE patients. The study identified potential biomarkers for neuropsychiatric events, but future studies are needed to confirm these findings.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateFeb 28, 2008

Steps toward stopping autoimmune disease

A landmark genetic study identified multiple genes linked to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a debilitating autoimmune disease affecting joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, brain and blood. The findings will ultimately lead to new therapies and earlier diagnosis, with 13 strong candidates supported by data that are 99% accurate.

SourceAlliance for Lupus Research·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 20, 2008

DNA variations signal lupus risk

Scientists have identified nine DNA variants that increase lupus risk in women, providing a potential diagnostic tool for early detection. The study, published in Nature Genetics, highlights the importance of genetic factors in lupus susceptibility and may lead to new treatments and a cure.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 20, 2008

New approach for attacking lupus identified

Researchers have discovered two new targets for drugs aimed at controlling lupus by regulating the balance between inflammatory and antiviral effects of interferons. By blocking specific kinases in the calcium-signaling pathway, they were able to suppress STAT1 activation and preserve antiviral effects.

SourceHospital for Special Surgery·JournalNature Immunology·DateDec 16, 2007