Overview
- Using a new single-cell sequencing method, researchers found EBV in about 1 of 400 B cells in 11 lupus patients versus fewer than 1 in 10,000 across 10 controls.
- The virus’s EBNA2 protein engaged host genes such as ZEB2 and TBX21 in memory B cells, reprogramming them to activate T cells and propagate autoimmunity.
- Investigators describe the results as the strongest mechanistic evidence linking EBV to lupus; the senior author says the pathway may be broadly relevant, while outside experts urge caution on scope.
- The findings highlight therapeutic avenues including targeted B‑cell depletion strategies like CAR‑T and potential antivirals, and they bolster interest in EBV vaccines now in early trials that might prevent some cases.
- Translation efforts are underway, with Lupus Research Alliance support and a new startup, EBVio Inc., pursuing treatments as peers call for replication, larger cohorts, and tissue studies beyond blood.