Author Archives: Marta Figueiredo, PhD

Mechanism Discovered Behind Strongest Lupus Genetic Risk Factor

The strongest genetic risk factor of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), HLA-DRB1*03:01, generates an abnormal protein that, in the presence of the pro-inflammatory interferon gamma (IFN-gamma), activates SLE-related genes and triggers SLE-characteristic cellular, tissue, and immune abnormalities. These are the findings of a new study in lab-grown human and mouse immune cells,…

FDA Clears New Antibody Test to Help in SLE Diagnosis

Thermo Fisher Scientific has received regulatory authorization in the U.S. to market its EliA Rib-P blood test, designed to improve the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), particularly in patients without hallmark antinuclear antibodies (ANAs). The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared the new antibody test, along with…

Alliance Backs SLE Research by Minority Scientists

The Lupus Research Alliance (LRA) has awarded a total of $2.1 million to five research projects from underrepresented minority scientists focused on the development of tests and treatments for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). “We congratulate the inaugural recipients of our Diversity in Lupus Research Awards and look forward to…

Study of Hydroxychloroquine vs. COVID-19 Planned for SLE Patients

Lupus Therapeutics, an affiliate of the Lupus Research Alliance (LRA), announced that it is working to design and run a clinical trial into whether hydroxychloroquine and other therapies for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can prevent or ease symptoms of COVID-19 in SLE patients. “This initiative is being done in…

Itolizumab Granted FDA Fast Track Designation as Potential Treatment for Lupus Nephritis

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted fast track designation to itolizumab as a potential therapy for lupus nephritis, a common and serious complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) that can lead to kidney failure. This designation is given to compounds that show considerable potential in treating serious conditions for which…