Mariana J. Kaplan, MD

Senior Investigator
Systemic Autoimmunity Branch

kaplanOur research focuses on unraveling fundamental mechanisms that confer susceptibility to develop a break in immunologic tolerance, as well as enhance our understanding of the innate and adaptive immune pathways crucial to the initiation and perpetuation of these autoimmune responses in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and other autoimmune diseases. In addition, we focus on identifying the immunologic pathways that lead to specific clinical phenotypes and the promotion of end-organ damage in systemic autoimmunity. As treatments to suppress aberrant immune responses have improved and patients with systemic autoimmunity can survive for longer periods of time, the prevalence of end-stage complications including the development of accelerated atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction has increased. We are interested in identifying the immune pathways that promote premature vascular damage in systemic autoimmunity to identify potential preventive strategies.

Current areas of interest:

  • The role of neutrophils and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in the induction of loss of immunologic tolerance and acceleration of organ and vascular damage in autoimmune diseases.
  • How type I Interferons (IFNs) contribute to the development of premature atherogenesis and vasculopathy in SLE and other connective tissue diseases.
  • Alterations of immunometabolism in autoimmunity.
  • The identification of novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets to mitigate CV damage and induce immunomodulation in SLE and other systemic rheumatic diseases.

Suggested Penn mentors: Terri Laufer, Scott Canna, Jonathan Miner, Michael May