Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is the prototype systemic autoimmune disease. Neuropsychiatric SLE (NPSLE) is a major cause of morbidity. Its pathophysiology remains unclear and target autoantigens have not yet been identified. Site- specific autoantigen expression might correlate with imaging abnormalities. Based on existing expertise on the use of peptide/protein arrays and on antigen-specific T cell tracking, we plan to identify new fingerprints and targets for NPSLE. SLE patients +/- NPSLE and healthy subjects will undergo advanced magnetic resonance imaging. Three-dimensional data on structural or functional brain architecture will be integrated with brain transcriptome atlases and candidate antigens for autoreactive autoantibodies and T lymphocytes identified and validated. The evidence will add to current knowledge on NPSLE pathophysiology, provide new multimodal diagnostic tools for better patient care and a platform for innovative, personalized treatments.
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To detect regional brain functional abnormalities in patients with SLE through advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Timeframe: 12 months (extensions allowed for existing images before study onset)
To identify autoantigen-specific circulating antibodies associated with neuropsychiatric morbidity and imaging features in patients with SLE.
Timeframe: 12 months (extensions allowed for existing MRI images before study onset)
To correlate antigen-specific CD4+ T-cell dynamics over time with the spectrum of SLE, NPSLE and associated MRI findings.
Timeframe: 12 months (extensions allowed for existing MRI images before study onset)