HOST-MICROFLORA INTERACTION IN SYSTEMIC LUPUS-ERYTHEMATOSUS (SLE) - COLONIZATION RESISTANCE OF THE INDIGENOUS BACTERIA OF THE INTESTINAL-TRACT

Experimental data suggest a role for the microflora in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). Anti-ds-DNA antibodies may be pathogenic in SLE by forming immune complexes with DNA. Foreign bacteria in the intestines could constitute the stimulus for anti-ds-DNA antibody production in SLE. Colonization Resistance (CR) is the defence capacity of the indigenous microflora against colonization of the intestines by foreign bacteria. A low CR implies increase of translocation of bacteria and a higher chance of subsequent, possibly DNA-cross-reacting antibacterial antibody production. We measured CR by a comprehensive biotyping technique in healthy individuals and patients with inactive and active SLE. CR tended to be lower in active SLE patients than in healthy individuals (P = 0.09, Wilcoxon one sided, with correction for ties). This could indicate that in ISLE more and different bacteria translocate across the gut wall due to a lower CR. Some of these may serve as polyconal B cell activators or as antigens cross-reacting with DNA.