This trial will enrol adult subjects with refractory autoimmune diseases, including active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), systemic sclerosis (SSc), or idiopathic inflammatory myopathy (IIM).
Autoimmune diseases occur when an individual;s immune system incorrectly attacks the healthy cells of organs and tissues. There are over 80 types of different autoimmune diseases affecting various parts of the body, including the hair, liver, pancreas, and more. Symptoms vary and depend on the part of your body that's affected. Common symptoms include redness, swelling, heat and pain due to chronic inflammation. The symptoms of autoimmune diseases fluctuate between flare-ups, where symptoms are exacerbated, and remission, where symptoms alleviate, for a period of time.
The exact causes of autoimmune diseases can be complex and poorly defined. Autoimmune diseases tend to be familial, suggesting genetics may play a role in predisposition. Viruses, certain chemicals, and other environmental factors may trigger an autoimmune disease.
SLE is the most common form of lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease whereby the immune system attacks the body's own tissue and organs. SLE causes inflammation in connective tissues, such as cartilage and the lining of blood vessels.
Source: Autoimmune Diseases - MedlinePlus
