Groundbreaking research has uncovered a likely trigger for the autoimmune disease lupus: the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). This common childhood virus, typically harmless for most people, appears to cause immune cells to malfunction, launching attacks on the body’s own tissues. The study, led by Professor William Robinson from Stanford University, suggests that this discovery could transform treatment approaches for lupus, potentially benefiting all individuals affected by the disease.
Lupus is a chronic autoimmune condition impacting approximately 69,000 individuals in the UK, characterized by the immune system mistakenly producing antibodies that harm the body. Despite previous indications of a connection between EBV and lupus, the exact mechanisms remained unclear until now. Robinson stated, “We think it applies to 100% of lupus cases,” emphasizing the importance of this research in paving the way for innovative therapies.
The association between EBV and various autoimmune disorders, such as multiple sclerosis, had been noted before; however, this latest study delves deeper into the cellular dynamics involved. Shady Younis, an immunologist at Stanford and the first author of the paper, remarked that the research resolves a longstanding mystery concerning lupus.
EBV typically causes mild symptoms, such as sore throat and fever, with around 19 out of 20 adults having been infected by the virus at some point in their lives. Once contracted, EBV remains dormant in the body, particularly within B cells, a type of immune cell. These cells are responsible for binding to viruses, but in lupus patients, EBV appears to activate B cells in an uncontrolled manner, exacerbating the autoimmune response.
The researchers conducted a rigorous analysis using genetic sequencing techniques to compare B cell populations in 11 lupus patients against 10 healthy individuals. They discovered a staggering 25-fold increase in the presence of EBV among B cells in lupus patients, particularly within autoreactive B cells that attack the body’s own tissues.
While EBV is a significant risk factor, other elements also play a role in lupus susceptibility. The disease disproportionately affects women, potentially linked to hormonal influences that heighten B cell activity, while individuals from African, Caribbean, or Asian backgrounds are also at increased risk.
Professor Guy Gorochov from Sorbonne University praised the study as “impressive” and acknowledged its contribution to understanding lupus, underscoring that while the findings are significant, they are just part of the broader picture.
If these findings are confirmed, they could accelerate clinical trials for an EBV vaccine, which are already in progress. Additionally, research is underway to repurpose existing cancer treatments aimed at eliminating B cells for use in severe lupus cases.
The research has been published in the journal Science Translational Medicine, highlighting the importance of continued exploration into the relationship between common viruses and autoimmune conditions, which holds promise for advancing treatments in the future.