Expression of the Epstein-Barr virus nuclear antigen-1 (EBNA-1) in the mouse can elicit the production of anti-dsDNA and anti-Sm antibodies.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by the production of anti-nuclear antibodies. The etiology of SLE is unknown, although several viruses including the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) have been implicated. An increase in the frequency of EBV infection has been observed in SLE patients relative to normal individuals.