Uncovering NINJ1 in SLE: Biomarker potential for renal and hematologic manifestations.

OBJECTIVE

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease, with an unclear etiology. This study investigated the clinical relevance of serum NINJ1 levels in SLE and evaluated its potential as a biomarker.

METHODS

Serum NINJ1 levels were measured in 99 newly diagnosed SLE patients and 43 healthy controls. Associations with clinical features, inflammatory markers, and autoantibodies were analyzed. ROC curve analysis was performed for diagnostic evaluation.

RESULTS

Serum NINJ1 levels were significantly higher in SLE patients (p < 0.0001) and further elevated in those with lupus nephritis (LN) and thrombocytopenia. Positive correlations with proteinuria, CRP, and NLR were found. ROC analysis showed good diagnostic performance (AUC = 0.83).

CONCLUSION

Serum NINJ1 is a promising biomarker for SLE, particularly for identifying LN and thrombocytopenia, and may aid in disease stratification and monitoring.