Research study for EC20036/076 genetic factors affecting susceptibility and clinical manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Martinez P, Hollingsworth PN

SLE is associated with inflammation, which involves a series of proteins that make up what is known as the “complement pathway”. One of the components of this pathway is known as “C4” and deficiency of this protein has been associated with an increased risk of developing SLE and more serous complications. In addition, blood levels of this protein are often used as a guide to the degree of activity of SLE.

CR2 polymorphism in rheumatoid arthritis.
Abraham L, Ulgiati D, Hollingsworth PN

The importance of CR2 in the generation of a normal B cell immune response and its expression during a critical stage in B cell development may be an important linkage to autoimmune disease. Therefore, as CR2 is activated during an important point in B cell development, and decreased expression of CR2 has been implicated in autoimmune disease, understanding of the transcriptional regulation and silencing of this gene may provide further insight into the pathogenesis of autoimmunity.