A common virus, nearly ubiquitous in the human population, is now being strongly linked to the growth of systemic lupus erythematosus, a potentially life-threatening autoimmune disease. New research published in *Science Translational Medicine* details how the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) can manipulate immune cells, potentially triggering the body to attack itS own tissues [[1]], [[2]]. This revelation may also offer new insight into why some patients respond positively to emerging CAR-T cell therapies [[3]].
Nearly everyone contracts the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) during childhood or adolescence, but new research suggests the common virus may play a key role in triggering autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus. A study published in Science Translational Medicine (DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.ady0210) reveals that EBV can reprogram B cells – a type of immune cell – turning them into antigen-presenting cells and potentially initiating an autoimmune response. Understanding the root causes of autoimmune diseases is a critical step toward developing more effective treatments.
Systemic lupus erythematosus is a particularly severe autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues throughout the body, targeting cells with a nucleus. While cutaneous lupus is limited to the skin, the systemic form can affect vital organs including the kidneys, joints, and heart, posing a threat to nearly any part of the body.
Researchers found that the virus’s impact on B cells may also explain the surprising success seen with CAR-T cell therapy in some lupus patients. This innovative treatment, which involves modifying a patient’s own immune cells to fight disease, has shown promise in cases where conventional therapies have failed. The central role of B cells identified in the study provides a potential mechanism for why CAR-T cell therapy is effective in treating lupus.
