An international consortium of scientists has identified multiple genes that are linked to systemic lupus erythematosus, a devastating autoimmune disease that affects between 1 million and 2 million Americans. Reporting in
Nature Genetics, the scientists also confirmed earlier findings linking lupus to several other genes - highlighting the role that genetics plays in the disease.
"These findings underscore that numerous genes, which are often immune-function related, contribute to the risk of developing lupus," said Carl D. Langefeld, Ph.D., senior author from Wake Forest University School of Medicine and co-director of the International
Consortium for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Genetics.
"These results suggest biologic pathways that help us understand the condition better and suggest additional genetic and non-genetic triggers," said Langefeld. "In addition, they help delineate the genetic distinctions between rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and other autoimmune diseases, which could lead to earlier, more accurate diagnoses."