Long Non-Coding RNA Xist Contribution in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Rheumatoid Arthritis

The study explored the role of long non-coding RNA Xist in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), highlighting a sex-specific bias in these autoimmune diseases. Females were more susceptible to SLE and RA, potentially due to the presence of two X chromosomes, which contain numerous immune-related genes. The Xist RNA, which regulates X chromosome inactivation (XCI), was identified as a key player in this process. Dysregulation of lnc-Xist and its associated factors, such as RNPs and miRNAs, were implicated in the development of these diseases. The study suggested that understanding these mechanisms could provide insights into the sex bias observed in systemic autoimmune diseases.