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Lupus | Overview

 

Serine/threonine phosphatase PP2A is essential for optimal B cell function

Authors: Meidan E, Li H, Pan W, Kono M, Yu S, Kyttaris VC, Ioannidis C, Rodriguez Rodriguez N, Crispin JC, Apostolidis SA, Lee P, Manis J, Sharabi A, Tsokos MG, Tsokos GC

Summary: Protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) is enzyme that is known to control T cells. Patients with lupus and mice in lupus models have increased PP2A activity. The authors in this paper report that PP2A is also required for optimal B cell function and may contribute to increased B cell activity.

Publication Information: JCI Insight, March 2020

High-dimensional analysis reveals a pathogenic role of inflammatory monocytes in experimental diffuse alveolar hemorrhage

Authors: Lee PY, Nelson-Maney N, Huang Y, Levescot A, Wang Q, Wei K, Cunin P, Li Y, Lederer JA, Zhuang H, Han S, Kim EY, Reeves WH, Nigrovic PA

Summary: In this study Dr. Lee used a mouse model to study diffuse alveolar hemorrhage, a complication seen in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Using multiple laboratory techniques, the authors identified monocytes as having a central role in the development of this complications and outlined monocytes as potential treatment target.

Publication Information: JCI Insight, August 2019

Insights Gained From the Study of Pediatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Authors: Lo MS

Summary: In this paper, Dr. Lo discusses the importance of studying children with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Children are more likely to have genetic mutations associated with SLE and this can provide insights to the cause of the disease.

Publication Information: Frontiers in Immunology, June 2018

Disease Activity and Transition Outcomes in a Childhood-onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Cohort

Authors: Son MB, Sergeyenko Y, Guan H, Costenbader KH

Summary: Dr. Son collaborated with adult rheumatologists at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital to study patients with childhood-onset lupus who transitioned medical care from a pediatric to adult rheumatologist. The research team identified that there are often gaps in care for patients changing providers. Patients also experience increased negative emotion during the transition. This work highlights the importance of making smooth transitions from pediatric to adult providers.

Publication Information: Lupus, November 2016