Anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies as a risk factor for the prevalence and severity of systemic lupus erythematosus.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex systemic autoimmune disease characterized by the presence of numerous autoantibodies. The interaction of infectious agents (viruses, bacteria and parasites) and a genetically susceptible host may be a key mechanism for SLE. Toxoplasma gondii is a widespread intracellular parasite that has been implicated in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. However, the relationship between T. gondii infection and the increased risk of SLE in Chinese populations remains unclear.

Methods

The seroprevalence of T. gondii infection was assessed in 1771 serum samples collected from Chinese individuals (908 healthy controls and 863 SLE patients) from different regions of China using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Serum autoan

SUBMITTER: Li Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10826107 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature