Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a leading cause of mortality among patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), with these individuals facing a 5 to 6-fold increased risk compared to the general population. Historically, SLE has been recognized as an independent risk factor for CVD, contributing to a bimodal mortality pattern in these patients. The initial mortality peak is attributed to active disease, while a later peak is linked to CVD development. This mortality pattern is influenced by a complex interplay of traditional risk factors, such as obesity, dyslipidemia, and atherosclerosis, alongside non-traditional factors, including pro-inflammatory mediators, pharmacotherapy, dietary influences, microbiota dysbiosis, and genetic and epigenetic variations. Despite advances in understanding these risk factors, gaps remain in comprehensively elucidating their interactions and contributions to CVD risk in SLE, necessitating further investigation into these multifaceted relationships.

This research topic aims to elucidate the associations between traditional and non-traditional CVD risk factors and specific SLE clinical phenotypes or disease endotypes. By exploring these associations, the research seeks to answer critical questions regarding the mechanisms through which these risk factors influence CVD outcomes in SLE patients. The objective is to test hypotheses related to the interaction of these factors and their impact on disease activity, organ damage, and overall mortality, thereby advancing our understanding of CVD risk in the context of SLE.

To gather further insights into the complex interplay of risk factors in SLE-related CVD, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- The role of lipid metabolism molecules and autoantibodies in lupus-associated dyslipidemias.
- The impact of cytokines and hormones on CVD risk in SLE.
- The influence of pharmacotherapy on cardiovascular outcomes in SLE patients.
- Dietary components and their relationship with CVD risk in SLE.
- The role of gut microbiota in modulating cardiovascular risk in SLE.
- Genetic variants, including polymorphisms, that contribute to CVD risk in SLE.
- Epigenetic factors and their potential mechanisms in influencing CVD risk in SLE.

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Unraveling the Complex Interplay of Risk Factors in SLE-Associated Cardiovascular Disease

Topic Coordinator