IRF5
interferon regulatory factor 5
Normal Function
Health Conditions Related to Genetic Changes
Rheumatoid arthritis
Studies have associated normal variations in the IRF5 gene with an increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis. This condition causes chronic abnormal inflammation, primarily affecting the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorders, which occur when the immune system malfunctions and attacks the body's tissues and organs.
There is some evidence that certain variations of the IRF5 gene are associated with increased activity of the gene and elevated cytokines. However, it is unknown what role, if any, these effects play in the increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis. Researchers believe that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may contribute to the development of these conditions.
More About This Health ConditionRelated Conditions
Rheumatoid arthritisSystemic lupus erythematosusSystemic sclerodermaUlcerative colitis
Health Conditions Related to Genetic Changes
Studies have associated normal variations in the IRF5 gene with an increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis. This condition causes chronic abnormal inflammation, primarily affecting the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorders, which occur when the immune system malfunctions and attacks the body's tissues and organs.
There is some evidence that certain variations of the IRF5 gene are associated with increased activity of the gene and elevated cytokines. However, it is unknown what role, if any, these effects play in the increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis. Researchers believe that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may contribute to the development of these conditions.
Studies have associated normal variations in the IRF5 gene with an increased risk of systemic lupus erythematosus. This is a chronic disease that causes inflammation in connective tissues, such as cartilage and the lining of blood vessels, which provide strength and flexibility to structures throughout the body. Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disorders, which occur when the immune system malfunctions and attacks the body's tissues and organs.
There is some evidence that certain variations of the IRF5 gene are associated with increased activity of the gene and elevated cytokines. However, it is unknown what role, if any, these effects play in the increased risk of systemic lupus erythematosus. Researchers believe that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may contribute to the development of these conditions.
Several normal variations in the IRF5 gene have been associated with an increased risk of developing systemic scleroderma, which is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the buildup of scar tissue (fibrosis) in the skin and internal organs. Although the IRF5 gene is known to stimulate the immune system in response to viruses, it is unknown how the gene variations contribute to the increased risk of systemic scleroderma. Researchers believe that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may play a role in development of the condition.
MedlinePlus Genetics provides information about Ulcerative colitis