Research from Around the world
Lupus News
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.
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.).
A new study has found promise in a compound which blocks signals from special receptors in the body thought to be involved in the autoimmune response. More specifically, these receptors are proteins which are designed to detect viral RNA, but mount an autoimmune response when they mistake the body’s own RNA as a threat.
A study indicates that beginning menstruation at age 15 or older and breastfeeding infants for six months or longer may be associated with increased risk for developing lupus in Black women.
In severe cases of COVID-19, an exuberant activation of immune cells resembles that seen in acute flares of SLE..
New research from Emory University School of Medicine points towards tests that could separate some COVID-19 patients who need immune-calming therapies from others who may not. It also may begin to explain why some people infected with SARS-CoV-2 produce abundant antibodies against the virus, yet experience poor outcomes.
SLE mostly affects women; however, males represent 4-22% of patients. Research shows men tend to seek medical attention & supportive care < women & are underrepresented at self-management/support services for coping with SLE, despite having higher disease severity. Limited research exists regarding the specific medical, psychosocial, & support needs of men with SLE. Our hospital conducted a national survey to identify self-reported needs & concerns for men with SLE, as well as their interest in male specific support forums.
