Lupus In Color
11th Annual Flight of the Butterflies
Spreading Lupus Awareness One Butterfly at a time
Let this butterfly flutter all over cyberspace!
May 30- Lupus Fact
Genetics research about lupus has led to more discoveries of how genes can affect lupus development. While researchers are confident that lupus is caused by genes , hormones and environmental triggers, they cannot determine which factor sets the disease in motion or how precisely these elements interact.
knowledge of the genes associated with lupus and other autoimmune diseases is growing, but certain genes have been identified that provide insight into an individual’s chance of developing lupus.
MHC Genes
MHC class II and III represent two families of genes known to be associated with lupus. Major histocompatability complex (MHC) genes help to shape your immune response by coding for proteins that function in response to invaders (antigens). The strength of the association of MHC II genes with lupus varies by ethnicity. MHC III genes code for components of the complement system, a group of proteins that interact to clear immune complexes and affect your body’s inflammatory response. Specifically, lupus involves defects of the genes for complement proteins C4 and C2. (Source John Hopkins lupus Center)
Turns out, those generalizations about lupus being “a family disease” are not just anecdotal: Genetics research is proving this observation to be empirically true. If genetics research advancements continue on the same trajectory, medical experts might one day be able to look at a person’s genetic profile, predict their risk for developing lupus, and maybe even stop the disease before it begins. (Source Lupus Foundation of America)
This is your thirtieth Butterfly of Hope.
We need awareness! We need a cure!
Encourage everyone you know to let it FLY!
#LupusInColor #ButterfliesofHope #FlightoftheButterflies #SpreadLupusAwareness #LupusAwarenessMonth #lupusfacts
