Autoimmune diseases are a general term for illnesses that develop when the immune system mistakenly attacks one’s own cells or tissues. Many diseases fall into this category, including rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). These diseases are thought to develop as a result of a complex interaction between environmental and genetic factors.
In recent years, advances in genetic testing technology have made it possible to evaluate the risk of developing autoimmune diseases at the genetic level. It is becoming clear that certain gene mutations increase the risk of disease, and these mutations are important indicators for prevention and early intervention. In this article, we will explain in detail how to use genetic testing to know your risk of autoimmune diseases.
What are autoimmune diseases? The relationship between genetic and environmental factors
Autoimmune diseases are caused by the body mistakenly attacking its own healthy cells and tissues, rather than an external pathogen. The main diseases are as follows:
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): Causes inflammation of the joints, resulting in pain and swelling
Type 1 diabetes (T1D): Pancreatic beta cells are destroyed by autoimmune disease, resulting in the inability to secrete insulin.
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): A multisystem disease that causes inflammation of the skin, joints, and internal organs.
Multiple sclerosis (MS): Damage to nerve fibers in the central nervous system, causing movement and vision problems
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) : diseases that cause chronic inflammation of the intestines, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
These diseases are thought to be caused by both genetic and environmental factors. Having certain genetic mutations increases the risk of developing the disease, but environmental factors (infections, diet, stress, etc.) also play important roles.
What is the genetic risk for autoimmune diseases? Major associated genes
Many of the genes involved in autoimmune diseases are involved in immune system function, and research has shown that certain gene mutations increase the risk of disease.
HLA genes (human leukocyte antigens)
The HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigen) gene is strongly associated with the risk of developing autoimmune diseases. The HLA gene plays a role in the immune system identifying foreign substances, and is said to be closely related to the following diseases:
HLA-DR4: Increases the risk of rheumatoid arthritis
HLA-DQ2/DQ8: Associated with celiac disease (gluten intolerance)
HLA-B27: Risk factor for ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis
PTPN22 gene
Mutations in the PTPN22 (Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase, Non-receptor Type 22) gene have been shown to increase the risk of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, and systemic lupus erythematosus. This gene plays a role in regulating the activation of immune cells.
IL23R gene
Mutations in the IL23R (Interleukin-23 Receptor) gene have been reported to be closely associated with inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis).
TNFAIP3 gene
The Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha Induced Protein 3 (TNFAIP3) gene has the function of suppressing inflammation, and it has been suggested that mutations in this gene are associated with autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Genetic testing: What information can you get?
Genetic testing can provide information about the following:
Estimating the risk of developing autoimmune diseases
Presence or absence of related genes for each disease
Possibility of reducing risk through lifestyle changes
Early detection of disease and development of prevention strategies
Genetic testing can be used to identify diseases that people are at risk of developing in the future and can serve as an indicator for making appropriate lifestyle changes and receiving medical advice.
Types of genetic tests and how to use them
1. Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing
Genetic tests offered to consumers require only a saliva sample sent by mail to receive results, and some tests are also available to check for autoimmune disease risk.
2. Genetic testing at medical institutions
Genetic testing at a hospital or clinic is performed under the guidance of a specialist and allows for more detailed analysis. Testing at a medical institution is recommended for people with a family history of autoimmune diseases or those who are experiencing certain symptoms.
Latest research and evidence
Recent research has improved our understanding of the relationship between autoimmune diseases and genes. The following studies have contributed to elucidating genetic factors:
Such research is making it possible to assess the risk of autoimmune disease using an individual’s genetic information with increasing precision, which is expected to lead to developments in preventive and personalized medicine.
How to use the results of genetic testing?
If a genetic test reveals that you are at risk for an autoimmune disease, what measures should you take? Even if you have a genetic predisposition, it does not necessarily mean that you will develop the disease. It is possible to reduce your risk through appropriate lifestyle choices and medical management.
1. Improve your diet
Diet is thought to play a major role in the onset and worsening of autoimmune diseases. By actively incorporating foods with anti-inflammatory properties, excessive activation of the immune system can be suppressed.
Processed foods (foods containing additives or excessive salt or sugar)
Excessive sugar and artificial sweeteners
Excessive animal fats (saturated fats can promote inflammation)
2. Stress management
Chronic stress can throw your immune system off balance, contributing to the onset or worsening of autoimmune diseases. Managing stress can reduce your risk of developing them.
Effective stress reduction methods
Mindfulness meditation: Contributes to immune function regulation
Moderate exercise: Walking and yoga are effective in reducing stress.
Quality sleep: Get 7-8 hours of sleep to restore your immune system
3. Improves intestinal function
Recent research has focused on the relationship between the intestines and the immune system. It is believed that an imbalance in the intestinal environment can have a negative effect on the immune system and increase the risk of developing autoimmune diseases.
How to improve your intestinal environment
Probiotics (yogurt, lactobacillus supplements)
Prebiotics (high fiber vegetables, bananas)
Moderate fermented foods (miso, natto)
Lifestyle strategies to prevent the development of autoimmune diseases
Even if genetic testing reveals your risk, controlling environmental factors may help prevent the onset of autoimmune diseases. The following lifestyle strategies can help prevent autoimmune diseases:
1. Establishing a moderate exercise habit
Exercise regulates immune function and reduces inflammation, and aerobic exercise in particular is thought to reduce the risk of autoimmune diseases.
Recommended exercise
Light jogging or walking (30 minutes or more) 3-5 times a week
Increase muscle flexibility through yoga and stretching
Increase your metabolism by incorporating strength training
However, excessive exercise can actually disrupt the immune system, so it’s important to exercise at a moderate intensity.
2. No smoking and drinking in moderation
Smoking is known to significantly increase the risk of autoimmune diseases, and has been shown to be a strong risk factor for rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis in particular.
The relationship between rheumatoid arthritis and smoking
Smokers have a 1.5 to 2 times higher risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis than non-smokers (references)
Excessive alcohol consumption also has a negative effect on immune function. Although moderate amounts of red wine (containing polyphenols) are known to have anti-inflammatory effects, it is recommended that you avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcohol.
Early detection of autoimmune diseases and the use of medical treatment
Early detection and treatment of autoimmune diseases is important. Once your risk is identified through genetic testing, it is important to undergo regular health checks.
1. Blood tests and autoantibody checks
Many autoimmune diseases are detected through blood tests. The following markers are important indicators:
Antinuclear antibodies (ANA): Used to diagnose SLE, etc.
C-reactive protein (CRP): indicates the presence or absence of inflammation
Rheumatoid factor (RF): indicates the possibility of rheumatoid arthritis
Combined with genetic testing, this allows for more accurate risk assessment.
2. Preventive medical interventions
If you are found to be at high risk for an autoimmune disease, it is important to consult with your doctor and take appropriate preventative measures, such as:
Immunosuppressive therapy: Mild immunomodulatory drugs for high-risk patients
Anti-inflammatory prophylaxis: Regular use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) if certain risk factors are present
Adjusting hormone balance : A link between female hormones and autoimmune diseases has been pointed out, and hormone therapy may be helpful.
Autoimmune diseases and the potential of cutting-edge gene therapy
Due to recent advances in medicine, gene therapy has been attracting attention as a treatment for autoimmune diseases.
1. Gene editing with CRISPR technology
Gene editing using CRISPR-Cas9 technology is being used to correct genetic mutations that cause autoimmune diseases, with research currently underway in rheumatoid arthritis and type 1 diabetes.
2. Reprogramming immune cells
Research is also being conducted into the application of immune cell therapies, such as CAR-T cell therapy, to treat autoimmune diseases, exploring ways to modify immune cells to prevent abnormal self-attacks.
The latest research on autoimmune diseases and future prospects
Research into autoimmune diseases is progressing rapidly, and it is expected that more precise risk assessments and new treatments will be developed in the future. Here we will introduce the latest research trends and treatment possibilities in detail.
1. Risk assessment using artificial intelligence (AI)
In recent years, genetic data analysis using AI has progressed, making risk assessment of autoimmune diseases more accurate. AI can analyze huge amounts of genome data and predict how combinations of multiple genes affect the risk of developing autoimmune diseases.
Examples of research using AI
Analyzing gene expression data to develop a model for predicting the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis
Using machine learning to analyze how specific genetic mutations affect disease progression
Research toward the realization of personalized medicine
2. Microbiome and autoimmune diseases
The relationship between the intestinal flora (microbiome) and autoimmune diseases has been attracting attention. It is known that an imbalance in the intestinal bacteria can cause an overreaction of the immune system, increasing the risk of developing autoimmune diseases.
Diseases closely related to intestinal bacteria
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Reduced gut bacterial diversity linked to disease onset
Type 1 diabetes: A decrease in certain intestinal bacteria is involved
Rheumatoid arthritis: A specific intestinal bacterium (Prevotella copri) may cause inflammation
By improving the intestinal environment, it is possible to reduce the risk of autoimmune diseases, and the use of probiotics and prebiotics is attracting attention.
3. Advances in gene therapy
Developments in gene therapy technology may make it possible to treat autoimmune diseases at their roots. The following technologies are being researched:
Gene editing with CRISPR-Cas9: Research underway to correct mutated genes that cause autoimmune diseases
RNA interference (RNAi) technology: Suppressing the expression of specific genes and preventing abnormal immune responses
Genetic vaccines: Reprogramming the immune system to slow the progression of autoimmune diseases
These technologies are currently in the clinical trial stage and are expected to be put into practical use in the future.
The relationship between autoimmune diseases and hormones
It is known that the incidence of autoimmune diseases differs depending on gender. Many diseases are particularly prevalent in women, and it has been suggested that hormone balance may affect their onset.
1. Influence of female hormones (estrogen)
Estrogen has a strong effect on the immune system and may increase the risk of autoimmune diseases.
Estrogen-related autoimmune diseases
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): The incidence rate in women is about nine times higher than in men
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): Symptoms often improve during pregnancy and worsen after delivery
Hashimoto’s disease (chronic thyroiditis): More common in women, and related to changes in hormone balance
Balancing hormone levels may be important in preventing and managing these conditions.
2. Male hormones (testosterone) and immunity
Testosterone has an immunosuppressive effect and may be a factor in reducing the risk of developing autoimmune diseases in men.
Autoimmune diseases involving male hormones
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS): Men have a higher incidence
Type 1 diabetes: Hormonal changes during puberty may influence onset
Hormone therapy may help treat autoimmune diseases and is currently being studied.
Environmental factors and the onset mechanism of autoimmune diseases
In addition to genes, environmental factors also play a major role in the development of autoimmune diseases.
1. Relationship with infectious diseases
Viral or bacterial infections can trigger autoimmune diseases. For example, the following infections may be involved in the development of autoimmune diseases:
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV): Associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and multiple sclerosis (MS)
Intestinal infections: increasing the risk of developing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Streptococcus infection: It has been pointed out that it is related to the onset of rheumatic fever and Hashimoto’s disease.
Prevention and early treatment of infections may be key to preventing the onset of autoimmune diseases.
2. Air pollution and autoimmune diseases
In recent years, it has been suggested that air pollutants increase the risk of autoimmune diseases. In particular, PM2.5 and diesel exhaust fumes may affect the immune system.
Air pollution-related illnesses
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): Incidence higher in people living in urban areas
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): Incidence increases in areas with high air pollution
Managing environmental factors is a key factor in preventing autoimmune diseases.
3. Dietary changes and autoimmune diseases
Changes in modern dietary habits may be contributing to the increased incidence of autoimmune diseases, with the increase in processed foods and the effects of food additives being of particular concern.
Effects of food additives
Emulsifiers and preservatives disrupt the gut flora and affect the immune system
A high-fat, high-sugar diet leads to chronic inflammation
It is important to review your diet and eat more natural foods.
Genetic testing and the potential of personalized medicine
Advances in genetic testing are making the diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune diseases more personalized. “Precision medicine,” which evaluates an individual’s genetic risk and selects the most appropriate treatment based on that risk, is attracting attention.
1. Treatment options based on genetic testing
Treating autoimmune diseases requires a different approach for each patient, and genetic testing may help select more appropriate treatments.
Treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis
Patients with the HLA-DR4 gene tend to respond better to methotrexate (MTX)
Research is underway to predict the effectiveness of TNF inhibitors (adalimumab, infliximab) using genetic testing
Treatment options for multiple sclerosis (MS)
Patients with IL2RA gene mutations are known to respond well to interferon-β therapy.
Patients with HLA-DRB1*1501 may benefit more from certain immunosuppressants
By selecting the most appropriate treatment for each patient based on their genetic information, we can reduce the risk of side effects and maximize the effectiveness of treatment.
2. Disease prediction using biomarkers
A biomarker is an indicator that predicts the onset and progression of a particular disease. The combination of genetic testing and biomarkers makes it possible to predict the risk of developing autoimmune diseases and the progression of the condition at an early stage.
Examples of biomarkers
Anti-CCP antibody (useful for early diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis)
IL-6 levels (predicts progression of multiple sclerosis)
Utilizing these biomarkers will enable more precise prevention and diagnosis.
The latest in autoimmune disease treatment
Advances in genetic research are dramatically changing the treatment of autoimmune diseases. In addition to conventional immunosuppressive therapy, new treatments utilizing biotechnology are being developed.
1. Immune checkpoint inhibitors
Immune checkpoint inhibitors are beginning to be used not only in cancer treatment but also in the treatment of autoimmune diseases.
PD-1 inhibitor (nivolumab): Potential to correct immune abnormalities in autoimmune diseases
CTLA-4 inhibitor (ipilimumab): Suppresses excessive activation of the immune system
These treatments are currently undergoing clinical trials and may one day become established treatment options for autoimmune diseases.
2. Stem Cell Therapy
Regenerative medicine using stem cells is expected to provide a fundamental treatment for autoimmune diseases.
Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy : Regulating the immune system and suppressing inflammation
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) – Under investigation as a treatment for severe cases of autoimmune diseases
These therapies have shown promising results, especially in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis.
Issues and future prospects for utilizing genetic testing
Although genetic testing is an extremely useful tool, it does present some challenges.
1. Insurance Coverage Issues
Many genetic tests are still not covered by insurance, and the high cost remains an issue. However, as genetic tests become more commonplace in the future, it is expected that insurance coverage will expand.
2. Privacy and Data Management
Genetic information is a particularly sensitive type of personal information, so appropriate data management and privacy protection are important.
3. Lack of use in the medical field
Although genetic testing technology has advanced, its use in the medical field has not yet progressed sufficiently. Going forward, there will be a need to develop a system that makes it easy for doctors and patients to use genetic information.
The future of genetic testing and technological innovation
Genetic testing technology is evolving every day and is having a major impact on risk assessment of autoimmune diseases and the development of treatments. It is expected that further technological innovation will make it possible to provide more precise and convenient genetic testing in the future.
1. The evolution of next-generation sequencing (NGS)
Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is a technology that can significantly reduce the cost of genetic analysis, making genetic testing accessible to more people.
Reduced costs: Detailed genetic information can be obtained in less time and at lower cost than with conventional genetic analysis.
Precise analysis: The effects of gene mutations can be evaluated in more detail than with conventional SNP analysis
Application to personalized medicine: Treatment plans can be determined based on individual risk assessment
2. Integration with wearable devices
In the future, wearable devices (smartwatches and biosensors) combined with genetic testing may allow for real-time health monitoring and management of the risk of developing autoimmune diseases.
Real-time biomarker measurement: Continuous monitoring of blood glucose levels and inflammatory markers
Integration with genetic information: Prevention strategies combining individual genetic risks and everyday health data
Health management using AI: AI analyzes genetic information and daily data to warn of increasing risks in advance
3. Advances in gene editing technology
Advances in CRISPR technology are helping to correct genetic mutations involved in the development of autoimmune diseases.
Genetic risk reduction: Correcting certain mutations to prevent disease development
Development of targeted therapy: Controlling disease at the genetic level rather than relying on conventional immunosuppressive therapy
Ethical issues and regulations: Ensuring safety and building social consensus are necessary
It is expected that these technological innovations will further expand risk assessment and treatment options for autoimmune diseases.
Summary
Genetic testing plays an important role in risk assessment and early detection of autoimmune diseases. It has been shown that certain genetic mutations, such as HLA genes and PTPN22 genes, increase the risk of developing autoimmune diseases. In addition, it may be possible to reduce the risk by adjusting environmental factors such as diet, stress management, and improving the intestinal environment. In recent years, risk prediction using CRISPR technology and AI has evolved, and it is expected to lead to the development of personalized medicine.
