Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

SLE begins with a failure to clear the body's own nuclear debris

Cells die constantly through normal turnover, releasing nuclear material (DNA, histones, ribonucleoproteins) that is usually cleared efficiently. In genetically susceptible individuals, often triggered by factors such as UV light, infection, hormonal influences or certain drugs, this clearance is impaired, and the persisting nuclear antigens are presented to B and T cells that have failed to maintain tolerance to self. The result is production of autoantibodies directed against nuclear components: the antinuclear antibody (ANA) response that is the serological hallmark of the disease and the starting point of everything that follows.