Sometimes, looking backward is a good way to go forward. With this in mind, scientists discovered that a cancer drug approved decades ago, based on the immune molecule IL-2, may restore balance to the overactive immune systems of people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). IL-2, or Interleukin-2, is rarely used in cancer treatment today. But, the…
Anthera Pharmaceuticals recently announced that the last patient in the company’s Phase 3 clinical trial, evaluating blisibimod for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus, has received the the final dose. The study will be completed and the data analyzed within the next two months, just in time for the upcoming American…
Scientists at The Scripps Research Institute identified key mechanisms contributing to the generation of autoimmune B-cells that attack the body’s own tissues in diseases like systemic lupus eurythematosus. In a cluster of microRNA (miRNA) molecules, the research team found one factor with exaggerated presence that allows faulty cells to sneak…
Being that this is my first blog post with y’all, I’ll start out by introducing myself with a warm hello and a virtual hug. I know at some point we all end up adding labels to people because it can be the easiest way to get a feel for someone’s personality and their…
Kiva Confections, a Californian medical cannabis company, has just introduced its new chocolate bars high in cannabidiol (CBD) and made from 100 percent whole plant cannabis. Recent anecdotal research has shown CBD to be an effective agent against systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and many other diseases. CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)…
Reactions following Rituxan (rituximab) infusions often limit its repeat use in patients with severe systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and the alternative B-cell-depleting agent Arzerra (ofatumumab) may be a good option for these people, according to researchers at the Karolinska Institute. Their study, “Ofatumumab treatment in lupus nephritis patients“, published in…
New research into a microRNA that helps to produce antibodies offering long-term protection against disease takes science a step close to finding a way to boost vaccine responses, and possibly to understanding how the molecule might be used to counter the development of autoimmune diseases like lupus. The study, “A miR-155–Peli1–c-Rel pathway controls the generation…
A case report of a woman who developed symptoms of cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) after golimumab administration, a rheumatoid arthritis treatment, has been published in the International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases. This is the third report of patients developing subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE), a subtype of CLE, while undergoing…
Pregnancy in patients suffering from systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can be complicated by a range of factors affecting both the mother and the fetus, and women with the disease were often advised against becoming pregnant. A research review from Yokohama City University Medical Center researchers, however, shows that optimal monitoring and treatment can improve…
Aurinia Pharmaceuticals will host a lupus nephritis expert breakfast on Thursday, Aug. 4, from 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. in New York City, to discuss the results of its latest clinical trial in treating lupus nephritis. Other topics at the breakfast, intended for investors, sales analysts, and business development professionals, include current lupus treatments, disease…