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The following is a summary of “Systemic lupus erythematosus: updated insights on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, prevention and therapeutics,” published in the March 2025 issue of Signal Transduction And Targeted Therapy by Dai et al. 

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic inflammatory illness affecting multiple organs. Its complex therapeutics require identifying key mechanisms and developing targeted treatments for better outcomes. 

Researchers conducted a retrospective study on SLE pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapeutics, analyzing key mechanisms and treatment complexities. 

They introduced SLE research history and epidemiology, categorized primary determinants of pathogenesis by mechanisms, reviewed diagnosis by onset, activity, and comorbidity, outlined genetic, epigenetic, hormonal, and environmental risk factors, and classified preventive strategies and therapeutics by mechanisms. 

The results showed three key mechanisms in SLE progression: attenuating the immune system, restoring cytokine homeostasis, and rescuing impaired debris clearance. SNP rs57095329 in the miRNA-146a promoter, critical for Interferons (IFNs) signaling, was highly associated with SLE susceptibility. Individuals with the G allele had significantly lower miRNA-146a levels than those with the protective C allele, likely due to altered Ets-1 binding. 

Investigators provided updated insights on SLE pathogenesis, diagnosis, prevention, and therapeutics, offering a potential avenue for improved management. 

Source: nature.com/articles/s41392-025-02168-0