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SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS

Are DNA–HLA class II interactions the missing link in SLE?

New evidence has emerged that DNA can bind to cell surface HLA class II molecules. If true, this surprising interaction could lead to T cell and B cell activation by DNA, and surface DNA could also provide a target for cell killing by anti-DNA antibodies in systemic lupus erythematosus.

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Correspondence to David S. Pisetsky.

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Pisetsky, D.S. Are DNA–HLA class II interactions the missing link in SLE?. Nat Rev Rheumatol 17, 647–648 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41584-021-00684-1

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