The Lifesciences Magazine

Source: www.meduniwien.ac.at Key Points: Autoimmune disease research reveals how immune cells attack the body, causing conditions like lupus and arthritis. New “immune reset” therapies and precision treatments show promise in early trials. Scientists are finding biomarkers for faster, more accurate diagnosis. WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 — After years of misdiagnoses, Ruth Wilson finally learned that her immune system had been turning against her. The Massachusetts resident was diagnosed with lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease known for its unpredictable symptoms. Her story highlights a growing health challenge affecting an estimated 50 million Americans. Lupus, often called the “disease of 1,000 faces,” can cause inflammation in the skin, joints, kidneys, and other organs. It is one of more than 80 autoimmune diseases, a group of disorders where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. These diseases range from rheumatoid arthritis and type 1 diabetes to multiple sclerosis,...