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Abstract
The pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases can be traced to both genetic susceptibility and epigenetic modifications arising from exposure to the environment. Epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation, histone modifications and microRNAs, influence gene expression and impact cell function without modifying the genomic sequence. Epigenetic dysregulation is associated with autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus. Understanding the molecular mechanisms, including epigenetic regulation of immune response, that are involved in the pathophysiology of lupus is essential for the introduction of effective, target-directed and tolerated therapies. In this monographic issue, the role of epigenetic mechanisms in lupus is discussed from different perspectives.