Gene expression profiling in pediatric rheumatic disease: what have we learned? What can we learn?

Gene expression profiling is emerging as a promising methodology in pediatric rheumatology research. There is considerable interest in using this technology as the basis for diagnostic assays. This review will summarize the new knowledge.

Most gene expression studies of children have been exploratory in nature. However, preliminary gene expression studies in juvenile dermatomyositis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and chronic forms of arthritis demonstrate both the promise and limits of this technology. It seems likely that gene expression profiling will significantly enhance our understanding of the immunopathology of childhood-onset rheumatic diseases; however, considerable impediments must be overcome before these assays move into the clinical arena.

Gene expression profiling carries considerable potential to provide novel insights into the rheumatic diseases of childhood. Future developments will determine whether these technologies provide new clinical diagnostic or prognostic tools.