Link Between Burkholderia Bacteria and Lupus
Author Information
Author(s): W. Zhang, M. Reichlin
Primary Institution: Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation
Hypothesis
The origin of anti-dsDNA antibodies in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) may be associated with Burkholderia bacterial infection.
Conclusion
The study suggests that anti-dsDNA antibodies from lupus patients can react with Burkholderia fungorum bacterial proteins, indicating a potential link between the bacteria and the disease.
Supporting Evidence
- Purified anti-dsDNA antibodies from lupus patients can bind to Burkholderia fungorum bacterial proteins.
- Seven out of twelve tested anti-dsDNA antibodies reacted with Burkholderia proteins in Western blot.
- Sera from SLE patients showed significantly higher binding to bacterial antigens compared to control sera.
Takeaway
This study found that some antibodies in lupus patients can stick to bacteria, which might help explain why some people get lupus.
Methodology
The study involved collecting sera from SLE patients, purifying anti-dsDNA antibodies, and testing their binding to Burkholderia proteins using ELISA and Western blot.
Participant Demographics
30 SLE patients who satisfied the American College of Rheumatology criteria for classification of SLE.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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