Key Highlights
- Lupus may be caused by the common Epstein-Barr virus, according to a new study.
- The research suggests that 95% of people acquire Epstein-Barr at some point in their lives and it could cause lupus by driving autoimmune attacks on healthy cells.
- Scientists have found that B cells containing the virus are far more prevalent in lupus patients, leading to an increased production of antinuclear antibodies that attack body tissues.
- The findings suggest potential new treatments targeting specific B cells infected with Epstein-Barr could be developed.
Unraveling the Mystery: Lupus and the Epstein-Barr Virus Connection
A groundbreaking study published in Science Translational Medicine on November 12, 2025, may finally shed light on one of medicine’s longstanding mysteries: the cause of lupus. According to researchers, a common virus, the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), could be the key factor behind this autoimmune disease that affects millions worldwide.
Epstein-Barr Virus: The Culprit?
The study, led by Dr. William Robinson and his colleagues at Stanford University, suggests that EBV, which 95% of people acquire at some point in their lives, may be the root cause of lupus. “From our perspective, it’s the key, missing mechanistic link,” stated Dr. Robinson. The research indicates that this virus drives the body to attack its own healthy cells, a hallmark of autoimmune diseases like lupus.
Understanding Lupus: A Complex Condition
Lupus is an autoimmune disease characterized by wide-ranging symptoms such as extreme fatigue, joint pain, and skin rashes. In severe cases, it can lead to life-threatening issues including kidney damage or weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections. Until now, no single root cause of lupus had been conclusively identified.
Research Insights: The Role of B Cells
The study focused on B cells, a type of white blood cell that helps fight off infections. Even in healthy individuals, EBV lies dormant in a small portion of B cells. However, these virus-containing B cells are far more prevalent in lupus patients—25 times higher compared to the general population.
The researchers found that EBV infects and reprograms B cells to produce antinuclear antibodies, which then attack body tissues, triggering the onset of lupus. This mechanism explains why only a small fraction of people who contract EBV develop lupus or other autoimmune conditions despite having similar viral exposure.
Potential Treatments and Future Directions
The findings suggest that targeting B cells infected with EBV could be an effective strategy for treating lupus. Dr. Robinson noted, “Future therapeutics could specifically target these B cells to alleviate symptoms.” Additionally, the development of a vaccine against EBV could prevent infections altogether, potentially offering long-term protection.
While the study provides significant insights, experts caution that more research is needed to confirm the link between EBV and all cases of lupus.
Hoang Nguyen, assistant vice president of research at the Lupus Research Alliance, stated, “Although the evidence is intriguing and promising, more evidence is needed to demonstrate that the link to EBV applies to all lupus.” The organization contributed grant funding to Robinson’s study.
The discovery underscores the complex interplay between genetics, hormones, and environmental factors in the development of autoimmune diseases. As scientists continue to unravel these mysteries, the potential for new treatments and preventive measures grows ever closer.
