Multiple polymorphisms in the TNFAIP3 region are independently associated with systemic lupus erythematosus

The TNFAIP3 (tumor necrosis factor alpha-induced protein 3) gene encodes a ubiquitin editing enzyme, A20, that restricts NF-kappa B-dependent signaling and prevents inflammation. We show that three independent SNPs in the TNFAIP3 region (rs13192841, rs2230926 and rs6922466) are associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) among individuals of European ancestry. These findings provide critical links between A20 and the etiology of SLE.