The immune system which protects us from bacterial and viral infections may in certain individuals with genetic susceptibility which are exposed to certain environmental factors loose its tolerance and attack endogenous tissues and organs. Knowledge on the etiology of rheumatic disease is increasing, and the number of treatment options for patients who suffer has risen dramatically in recent years.
My group is studying underlying mechanisms for rheumatic diseases, especially SLE, as well as biomarkers and autoantibodies in relation to diagnosis, treatment response and prognosis.