IRF7, a functional factor associates with systemic lupus erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease attributing to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Abnormal expression/function of type I interferons has been demonstrated with the pathogenesis of SLE, especially IFN-α, which can be regulated by IFN regulatory factor 7 (IRF7). Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) near/in IRF7 have been substantiated related to onset of SLE, moreover, regulation of IRF7 expression/function has been found important in SLE. Therefore, we will discuss the association of IRF7 and SLE based on recent understandings to render more information about the mechanisms of IRF7 might perform in.

► IRF7-mediated immunity plays an important role in onset of SLE.
► Gene polymorphisms near/in IRF7 are crucial in the pathogenesis of SLE.
► Regulation of IRF7 expression shows a significant role in SLE.
► Further investigations are still needed to establish the accurate role of IRF7.