Systemic lupus erythematosus and human endogenous retroviruses

Human endogenous retroviruses (HERV) are known to be widely present in the human genome. Several investigations have suggested a possible etiological role of HERV in certain human disorders, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Here we review and discuss the possible role of HERV, especially HERV clone 4-1, in the onset of SLE, based on recent findings including our own data.