Fine particles in pollution are associated with early signs of autoimmune disease

Fine particles in pollution are associated with early signs of autoimmune disease

Recent research from McGill University, Canada, strongly links fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and other air pollutants like nitrogen dioxide (NO2) to an increased risk of developing Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and triggering flares, with studies showing significant associations and suggesting that long-term exposure may contribute to the onset of this autoimmune disease, especially in genetically predisposed individuals, even linking it to early markers like anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA).

Epstein–Barr Virus Reprogrammes B Cells to Trigger Lupus

Epstein–Barr Virus Reprogrammes B Cells to Trigger Lupus

A common childhood virus appears to be the trigger for the autoimmune disease lupus, according to groundbreaking research.

The study suggests that Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which for most people is harmless, can cause immune cells to “go rogue” and mistakenly attack the body’s own tissues. The team behind the work said that uncovering the cause of lupus could revolutionise treatments.

Lupus often fades with age and Scientists finally know why

Lupus often fades with age and Scientists finally know why

Unlike many other autoimmune or chronic illnesses, lupus can improve as patients reach their 60s and 70s.

By analysing blood samples from patients across the age spectrum, the team at University of California discovered that aging turns down the activity of certain immune genes in people with lupus, leading to fewer interferons and other inflammatory proteins in the body.

Korean researchers unlock genetic clues to lupus

Korean researchers unlock genetic clues to lupus

In a major leap forward for autoimmune disease research, South Korean researchers have developed a high-resolution genetic analysis tool that can precisely decode the complex immune-related gene cluster linked to lupus. This discovery not only deepens understanding of how lupus begins but also could lead to customized treatments tailored to individual genetic profiles, they say.

Lupus Worsened by Autoantibodies

Lupus Worsened by Autoantibodies

In an effort to understand the origin of systemic lupus erythematosus and why some patients present with more severe disease than others, Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers say they have identified a type of autoantibody that may worsen the condition and have also found how these autoantibodies originate (Anti-DNA antibodies are a hallmark of patients with SLE.).

SLE patients have different skin microorganisms

SLE patients have different skin microorganisms

The skin is the second most affected organ in lupus patients. Cutaneous involvement occurs in approximately 80% of patients with systemic lupus.

Interaction between the host and skin microorganism is a complex process. There are few studies on the diversity of skin microbes in SLE patients. The new study aims to explore the relationship between skin microorganisms and SLE

Hydroxychloroquine Does Not Increase the Risk of Cardiac Arrhythmia in lupus

Hydroxychloroquine Does Not Increase the Risk of Cardiac Arrhythmia in lupus

Hydroxychloroquine is widely used to treat certain viral and rheumatic diseases including systemic lupus erythematosus. Cardiac arrhythmia is an important safety issue with hydroxychloroquine. The aim of this study was to investigate whether hydroxychloroquine increases new-onset arrhythmia among patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.

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