NCIt related terms : Systemic lupus erythematosus;
Alternative definition : KEGG: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is characterized by circulating IgG autoantibodies
that are specific for self-antigens, such as DNA, nuclear proteins and certain cytoplasmic
components. Immune complexes comprising autoantibody and self-antigen is deposited
particularly in the renal glomeruli and mediate a systemic inflammatory response by
activating complement or via Fc-gamma-R-mediated neutrophil and macrophage activation.
Activation of complement leads to injury both through formation of the membrane attack
complex (C5b-9) or by generation of the anaphylatoxin and cell activator C5a. Neutrophils
and macrophages cause tissue injury by the release of oxidants and proteases.;