Molecular Aspects of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease caused by combined genetic and environmental factors that change the normal pathways of human immunity. SLE is potentially fatal and carries significant morbidity. The SLE patient can inherit multiple predisposing genes. T The identified SLE genes generally affect activation of autoimmune responses, resulting in aggregation of immune complexes. In order to help diagnose SLE, specific disease index system is used. In this index system, a minimum of four categories must be met to diagnose a patient with SLE. Steroid medication for immunomodulation can result in various side effects in long term use. Therefore, further research is important not only for deeper understanding of SLE etiopathogenesis, mechanisms and diagnosis, but also for optimized or improved therapies.