PLK1, a Potential Novel Therapeutic Target for Lupus

Dr. Wu’s previous research demonstrated that an enzyme known as PLK1 plays a role in lupus. With their Novel Research Grant, they will test if blocking the enzyme PLK1 in mice with lupus reduces inflammation and other symptoms. They will also examine blood samples of lupus patients to see how inhibiting this enzyme affects human immune cells. If successful, their research will provide a new, exciting target for lupus treatments.

What this study means for people with lupus

Dr. Wu will study how the enzyme PLK1 affects the immune system and if blocking its activity can reduce inflammation and other symptoms of lupus. He and his team believe that blocking this enzyme can provide a viable therapeutic target for treating lupus.