Genetic susceptibility to lupus: the biological basis of genetic risk found in B cell signaling pathways.

Over 50 genetic variants have been statistically associated with the development of SLE (or lupus). Each genetic association is a key component of a pathway to lupus pathogenesis, the majority of which requires further mechanistic studies to understand the functional changes to cellular physiology. Whereas their use in clinical practice has yet to be established, these genes guide efforts to develop more specific therapeutic approaches. The BCR signaling pathways are rich in lupus susceptibility genes and may well provide novel opportunities for the understanding and clinical treatment of this complex disease.