The genetics of lupus

The complex multifactorial inheritance pattern of systemic lupus erythemato sus in various murine models has been dissected via both classic genetic an alysis and the use of modern technologies in genomic manipulation. Current information suggests that lupus may be mediated by a multitude of genetic a bnormalities that impact on specific checkpoints in a three-step pathogenic pathway. These steps are as follows: loss of immunologic tolerance to nucl ear antigens; the transition to pathogenic autoimmunity; and end-organ targ eting. The identities of the genes that are responsible for transition betw een the specific steps of the pathway are still unknown and will require fu rther study. However, several recent findings have provided insights into s pecific elements in each stage of lupus. These findings suggest that mouse models of lupus may provide valuable insights into the genetic basis of hum an systemic lupus erythematosus, Curr Opin Nephrol Hypertens 10:437-443 (C) 2001 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.