BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to discuss the possible roles and clinical value of 2 circRNAs (hsa_circ_0049224 and has_circ_0049220) in SLE patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Reverse-transcription real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was conducted to detect the expressions of hsa_circ_0049224, has_circ_0049220, and DNMT1 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from 18 diagnosed SLE patients and 10 healthy controls.

RESULTS: We found that the expressions of hsa_circ_0049224 and has_circ_0049220 in healthy control groups were both much higher than those in inactive and active SLE patients. The expression level of DNMT1 is positively correlated with the expressions of hsa_circ_0049224 and has_circ_0049220. Moreover, there was a negative correlation between the SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) and the expressions of hsa_circ_0049224 and has_circ_0049220. We also found that these 2 circRNAs are associated with some clinical characteristics of SLE.

CONCLUSIONS: Hsa_circ_0049224 and has_circ_0049220 are probable factors involved in the pathogenesis of SLE, and they have potential clinical value in SLE.

Keywords: Biological Markers, Systemic Lupus Erythematous, clinical