La/SSB

The presence of anti-La/SSB (also referred to as the "La autoantigen" or "Lupus LA protein) autoantibodies in patients is an indication for systemic lupus erythematosus and Sjögren´s Disease. La/SSB is encoded by the SSB gene (small RNA binding exonuclease protection factor LA) and functions as a RNA-binding protein essential for RNA metabolism. By binding to the 3' ends of RNAs, the La protein protects them from exonuclease degradation. This La-mediated protection is essential for the proper maturation of pre‑tRNA, aids in the assembly of small RNAs into functional RNA-protein complexes, and plays a role in the nuclear retention of specific small RNAs.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease with multisystemic involvement. The condition has numerous phenotypes, with varying clinical presentations, ranging from mild mucocutaneous manifestations to multiorgan and severe central nervous system involvement. Common symptoms include painful and swollen joints, fever, chest pain, hair loss, mouth ulcers, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and a red rash, most commonly on the face. Often there are periods of illness, called flares, and periods of remission during which symptoms are few. Despite recent advances in technology and understanding of the pathological basis and risk factors for SLE, the exact pathogenesis is still not well known. Besides La/SSB autoantibodies, several other pathogenic autoantibodies have been identified.

Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the body's moisture-producing glands, causing symptoms such as dry eyes, dry mouth and difficulty swallowing. It can occur alone, known as primary Sjögren's syndrome, or in association with other autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, known as secondary Sjögren's syndrome. The exact cause of the condition is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors that cause the immune system to mistakenly attack the body's own tissues. There is no cure, but treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications. Early and accurate diagnosis is therefore even more important to prevent or ensure timely treatment of many of the complications associated with Sjögren's syndrome. The diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome can be challenging due to its diverse symptoms, which often overlap with other conditions. It is typically diagnosed through a combination of clinical evaluation, patient history, and a series of specific tests. Anti-La/SSB autoantibodies are commonly detected in 23%–52% of the sera from individuals with Sjögren’s syndrome.

Virion\Serion’s La/SSB Antigen (BA501R01) is recombinantly expressed in E. coli and highly purified via Strep-tag affinity chromatography, which guarantees high quality and availability.

Please let us know if you are interested in 0.25 mg test sample.