Our Research on X Chromosome Inactivation in Lupus Receives Featured Review in Nature Reviews Rheumatology

1st October 2024 – by Aaruthy Suthahar

We are excited to share that our study on X chromosome inactivation in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), led by Dr. Amy Roberts and her team, has been highlighted in Nature Reviews Rheumatology. The article, titled “Is X chromosome inactivation a cause or effect of SLE?”, shines a spotlight on the key findings from our study, which challenge long-standing assumptions about the role of X chromosome inactivation (XCI) in lupus.

The study, recently published in the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, dives into the mechanisms behind the female bias in autoimmune diseases, specifically SLE. Historically, it has been believed that skewed XCI—where one X chromosome is preferentially inactivated—might be a contributing factor to the higher prevalence of lupus in women. However, our study suggests that rather than being a cause, reduced XCI skewing may be a consequence of the disease itself.

Using a large cohort of women with lupus, alongside a twin study, Dr. Roberts and her team found that lupus patients, particularly those with more severe forms of the disease, showed less skewed X chromosome inactivation compared to healthy participants. This finding was not only statistically powerful but also calls into question existing theories about how XCI contributes to the development of lupus.

This recognition from Nature Reviews Rheumatology signifies the importance and impact of this work. By pushing the boundaries of what we know about lupus and X chromosome inactivation, this research opens new questions and avenues for future exploration into autoimmune diseases. We are incredibly proud of Dr. Roberts and her team for their continued dedication to advancing our understanding of these complex conditions.

Congratulations to everyone involved in this exciting achievement! You can read the full review in Nature Reviews Rheumatology here.