People with lupus and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have a greater risk of developing cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and atherosclerosis. A new study conducted in Columbia has identified potential new therapeutic targets for reducing endothelial damage (defined as the destruction of the membrane that lines the inside of the heart and blood vessels).

The researchers found that people with lupus and RA have increased amount of microparticles (MPs) and immune complexes (MPs-ICs) circulating in their blood. These vesicles were associated with endothelial injury and alterations. Therefore, studying MPs and MPs-ICs further could help the development of therapeutic strategies that can mitigate endothelial damage and may improve cardiovascular health in people with lupus and RA.

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