oxLDL/beta2GPI complex and anti-oxLDL/beta2GPI in SLE: prevalence and correlates

High levels of oxidized low-density liprotein/beta2 glycoprotein 1 (oxLDL/beta2GPI) complexes and anti-complex IgG as well as IgM have been reported in SLE. We analysed this complex and Ab against the complex in SLE patients and evaluated their relationship with clinical and serological findings, traditional risk factors for atherosclerosis, and subclinical atherosclerosis. The prevalence and the levels of the complex and of anti-complex Ab were significantly higher in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients than in normal healthy donors (NHD). The titers of oxLDL/beta2GPI were significantly higher in patients with renal involvement and previous thromboembolic episodes and were correlated with the number of risk factors for atherosclerosis, whereas they were significantly lower in patients with neurological involvement. Both IgG and IgM anti-complex Ab were associated with antiphospholipid (APL). In conclusion, the oxLDL/beta2GPI complex as well as Ab against the complex are prevalent in SLE where they seem to be involved in organ damage.