Mapping the genes that predispose to murine lupus

Project Narrative This proposal addresses a novel direction in lupus pathogenesis in that following exposure to a lupus trigger with loss of tolerance, inherent pre-existing defects in CD4 IL-2 production skew towards autoantibody production and away from a beneficial cell mediated immune response that could restore tolerance. Using a mouse model of induced lupus, we will map the genes that predispose to severe lupus and to reduced IL- 2 production. Identification of these genes will advance the possibility of not only prospectively identifying humans at risk for severe lupus but also which patients are likely to benefit from low dose IL-2 treatment.