What's the Link Between Two Enzymes and Lupus?

Ever heard of ACK1 and BRK? These are two non-receptor tyrosine kinases that have been found to play a role in an autoimmune disease called systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Scientists have discovered that people with SLE in their families might have issues with these enzymes. When researchers blocked these enzymes in mice, they saw an increase in autoantibodies and more severe kidney issues, similar to what happens in SLE.

These enzymes, ACK1 and BRK, help regulate how immune cells behave. They control whether these cells move around, multiply, and become active. In people with SLE, these enzymes might not work properly. This can affect a process called efferocytosis, where macrophages (a type of immune cell) clean up dead cells. If this process is impaired, it could contribute to the body attacking itself, which is what happens in SLE. So, what does this mean? It suggests that problems with ACK1 and BRK could be linked to human SLE. And, it might be that these enzymes are crucial for keeping the immune system in check.

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