Diet and Microbes in the Pathogenesis of Lupus

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disorder with no known cure. It is characterized by severe and persistent inflammation that damages multiple organs. To date, treatment and prevention of disease flares have relied on long-term use of anti-inflammatory drugs where side effects are of particular concern. There is a need for better understanding of the disease and for better approaches in SLE treatment and management. In this chapter, we delineate the roles of diet and microbes in the patho- genesis of SLE.