Kurzfassung

Cardiovascular diseases are a major cause of death in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In particular young women of childbearing age have a much higher risk of suffering a heart attack than controls of the same age. Traditional cardiovascular risk factors (obesity, smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, etc.) cannot fully explain this increased incidence. The aim of the project is to elucidate the pathogenetic mechanisms of premature atherosclerosis in autoimmune diseases such as systemic...Cardiovascular diseases are a major cause of death in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In particular young women of childbearing age have a much higher risk of suffering a heart attack than controls of the same age. Traditional cardiovascular risk factors (obesity, smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, etc.) cannot fully explain this increased incidence. The aim of the project is to elucidate the pathogenetic mechanisms of premature atherosclerosis in autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus and to detect potential therapeutic strategies. For this purpose, the influence of angiotensin II on cardiovascular and renal manifestation will be investigated in Lupus-prone MRL Faslpr mice. Then it will be demonstrated that the effect of angiotensin II is mediated by IL-6. Therefore, the effect of an IL-6 knockout is examined on the one hand and an IL-6 blocking therapy on the other. Furthermore, both SGLT2 inhibitors and Finerenone are being investigated for a possible positive effect on cardiovascular and renal manifestations. In summary, it is to be examined whether angiotensin II causes an increase in vascular or renal manifestations and whether these can be alleviated by IL-6 suppression, SLGT2 inhibitors or Finerenone.» weiterlesen» einklappen