KLHDC7B as a Potential Therapeutic Target in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Insights from Bulk and Single-Cell RNA-Seq and Spatial Transcriptomics of Epidermal Keratinocytes

Abstract

AbstractSystemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue in many body parts, symptoms vary among people and may be mild to severe. Red rash on the face is the most common symptom, others include painful and swollen joints, fever, chest pain, and feeling tired [1]. Both genetics and environmental factors are identified to be involved in SLE [2]. Currently, there is no cure for SLE, and corticosteroids are usually used as one of the treatment methods, but long-term use leads to side effects [3]. Identifying new therapeutic targets is crucial for improving the treatment of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). By integrating bulk and single-cell RNA-seq data with spatial transcriptomics of keratinocytes, we found KLHDC7B to be upregulated in UV-treated HaCaT cells, SLE skin keratinocytes, and spatially resolved epidermal samples. These findings suggest KLHDC7B as a potential therapeutic target for SLE.