Clinical Research Studies

The purpose of this research study is to look at the genes (DNA) and biomarkers in the blood / from the blood samples of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus) or other rheumatic diseases. Lupus is an autoimmune disease, which means that your immune system not only attacks bacteria and viruses but also attacks your healthy cells and organs, affecting many parts of the body. Genes (DNA) determine how you look and function as well as whether a person may be at risk for developing a disease. Subjects who do not have lupus (healthy controls) will also be asked to participate. Their genetic makeup will be compared to lupus subjects to find potential differences that may help us better understand what causes lupus and other rheumatic diseases.