Prominent B-Cell Signature Differentiates Discoid from Subacute Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Dermatology
• Genetics

Background:

• B cells are present in discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) skin lesions, but their role in disease pathogenesis is unclear.
• Understanding the immune cell landscape in DLE is crucial for developing targeted therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the immune landscape of DLE and subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE) skin lesions.
• To identify specific immune cell signatures associated with DLE.

Main Methods:

• Transcriptomic and histologic analyses of lesional skin from DLE and SCLE patients.
• Utilized a modified Autoimmune Profiling Panel for gene expression analysis.
• Performed digital whole-image slide analysis of immunohistochemistry for B and T cells.

Main Results:

• B-cell-specific genes, including CD19, CD20, and CD79a, were significantly upregulated in DLE lesions.
• Enrichment of genes encoding B-cell-associated proteins like immunoglobulins and BAFF receptors was observed in DLE.
• Relative cell type scoring and immunohistochemistry confirmed a disproportionately greater B-cell infiltrate in DLE compared to other inflammatory cells.

Conclusions:

• Discoid lupus erythematosus exhibits a unique B-cell-predominant immune signature.
• Cutaneous B cells likely play a significant role in DLE pathogenesis.
• Further investigation into the function of B cells in DLE is warranted.