| Type I interferons play a key role in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) pathogenesis as an "IFN signature" is found in the majority of patients with active SLE. Immune complexes are internalized by plasmacytoid dendritic cells (DC) via Fc-[gamma] ReceptorIIA, reach the endosomal compartment and activate IFN-[alpha] secretion through TLR7/9-dependent pathways. Naturally occurring differences in expression of the TLR7/9 gene as well as factors that modulate TLR7/9 expression, including CD154 could therefore contribute to SLE pathogenesis. Although its origin is not elucidated CD154 is hyperexpressed in SLE patients, and is important for the differentiation of autoantibody-secreting cells. We hypothesized that platelets which are an... |
