Immunosuppressant exposure confounds gene expression analysis in systemic lupus erythematosus.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

The analysis of gene module expression in SLE is emerging as a tool to identify active biological pathways, with the aim of developing targeted therapies for subsets of patients. Detailed information on the effect of immunosuppressants on gene module expression is lacking. We aimed to examine the impact of medication exposure on gene module expression.

Methods

A set of commercially available disease-relevant gene modules were measured in 730 whole blood samples from a dedicated lupus clinic on whom prospectively collected, contemporaneous clinical data including medication exposure were available.

Results

Compared to heathy controls, SLE patients showed over-expression of IFN and under-expression of B cell, T cell and pDC modules. Neutrophil module over-exp

SUBMITTER: Northcott M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9430375 | biostudies-literature | 2022

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature