Defining New Targets in lupus Through Identification of Non-coding SNPs

Scientists have found more than 50 regions of DNA that contribute to lupus risk. At least 35 of these DNA regions regulate gene activity—they serve as magnets that attract proteins, which in turn, act as control switches that determine whether a gene is more or less active. Variations in gene activity influence a person’s biology—for example, whether they are more or less likely to develop a disease like lupus.  The TIL grant will enable Dr. Nigrovic to study each of these 35 DNA control centers to determine how they contribute to lupus risk.

Dr. Nigrovic will identify the proteins that interact with the DNA regions using state-of-the-art technologies. Once the control proteins are known, he will be able to build up a more complete picture of the genes and biological pathways that cause lupus.

What this study means to people with lupus

This line of research is expected to discover new targets for treatments to prevent or cure lupus.