New cause for early-onset lupus discovered

In a new study out by the Autoimmune Genetics Laboratory, we have discovered a new genetic cause for early-onset systemic lupus erythematosus - mutation in the gene IFIH1. In 2014, mutations of this gene were independently found to cause the neurodegenerative disease Aicardi-Goutières syndrome (AGS). Despite lupus and AGS manifesting as clinically different symptoms, this study shows that mutation in the same gene causes both diseases. The mutation in IFIH1 works via driving excessive production of the cytokine IFN alpha, so this discovery opens up the possibility for treatment once anti-IFN alpha antibodies (currently in development) are approved for use. 

Read more: Van Eyck, De Somer, Pombal, Bornschein, Frans, Humblet-Baron, Moens, de Zegher, Bossuyt, Wouters* & Liston*. IFIH1 mutation causes systemic lupus erythematosus with selective IgA-deficiency. Arthritis Rheumatol. 2015, in press.

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