HLA class II antigens associated with systemic lupus erythematosus in black South Africans

Article Abstract:

Evidence suggests that there is section of the human leukocyte antigen-DR2 (HLA-DR2) gene grouping that plays a role in the development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in black South Africans. A gene not connected to DR2 called HLA-DQB1*02 may play a role in the expression of an antibody associated with SLE called the Ro antibody. SLE is an inflammatory disorder of the connective tissue affecting many systems of the body. Researchers analyzed the HLA-DR, HLA-DQA, and HLA-DQB gene sequences of 49 black South Africans with SLE and compared them with 87 healthy black South African volunteers. They found an increase in the HLA-DQB1*02 gene frequency in the SLE patients as compared to the healthy volunteers. Twelve of 22 SLE patients carrying the anti-Ro antibody were positive for the HLA-DQB1*02 gene.

South Africa, Genetic aspects, Lupus erythematosus, Blacks, HLA class II antigens

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Response to methotrexate in early rheumatoid arthritis is associated with a decrease of T cell derived tumour necrosis factor alpha, increase of interleukin 10, and predicted by the initial concentration of interleukin 4

Article Abstract:

Methotrexate treatment of rheumatoid arthritis causes changes in blood levels of certain cytokines, according to a study of 8 RA patients who were before and after 6 to 9 months of treatment . Cytokines are proteins produced by the immune system.

Rheumatoid arthritis, Methotrexate

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Increased IgA rheumatoid factor and V(sub)H1 associated cross reactive idiotype expression in patients with Lyme arthritis and neuroborreliosis

Article Abstract:

Some patients with Lyme disease may have rheumatoid factor autoantibodies and other signs of autoimmune disease. In a study of 59 Lyme disease patients, 18% had IgA rheumatoid factor in their blood.

Health aspects, Lyme disease, Rheumatoid factor, Immunoglobulin A

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