TRIM8-associated non-coding RNA panel as a biomarker for Lupus nephritis activity.

BACKGROUND

Lupus nephritis (LN) represents a major complication in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The objective of this study was to evaluate the TRIM8 gene and its associated non-coding RNAs (lnc-SSBP2-1:1 and hsa-miR-126-5p) as potential non-invasive biomarkers for LN activity.

METHODS

Bioinformatics analyses were initially employed to identify candidate mRNA and associated non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) implicated in LN. Expression profiles of TRIM8lnc-SSBP2-1:1and hsa-miR-126-5p were validated in blood samples from 40 active LN, 30 inactive LN patients, and 20 healthy individuals via real-time PCR.

RESULTS

TRIM8 mRNA and lnc-SSBP2-1:1 lncRNA levels were notably upregulated in active LN (p < 0.001), while hsa-miR-126-5p was reduced (p < 0.001). SLEDAI-2K scores correlated positively with TRIM8 mRNA and lnc-SSBP2-1:1, and negatively with hsa-miR-126-5p.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights TRIM8-associated ncRNA regulatory network as promising biomarkers in LN activωity, with potential clinical impact.