NIH study of stem cell transplantation for severe lupus

Researchers at the National Institutes of Health (U.S.) have begun a five-year study to see whether stem cell (bone marrow) transplantation can be used as a therapy for severe, treatment-resistant systemic lupus erythematosus. Lupus is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease which, in its severe form, can cause damage to the kidneys, lungs, or central nervous system. The researchers believe that the intensive immunosuppressive treatment required for stem cell transplantation, combined with the transplant, will create a new immune system that does not attack the body's cells.