Interferon alpha (IFN-α) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease of unknown etiology. An important role in the pathogenesis of SLE has been attributed to interferon alpha (IFN-α), which stimulates the expression of numerous genes, resulting in an increased autoinflammatory response. Recent studies have demonstrated increased levels of this cytokine in patients with SLE, as well as in relatives, indicating that IFN- α is an inherited risk factor for lupus. Cases of induction of SLE/lupus-like syndrome after IFN- α therapy also point to the involvement of interferon in the pathogenesis of the disease. Interferon being a probable initiator of the disease, as well as a marker to examine its exacerbations, is a potential research target to better understand the etiology and pathogenesis of lupus. More research is needed to determine the feasibility of using INF-blocking agents for new therapies in SLE.

Keywords

• systemic lupus erythematosus
• interferon alpha