Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus) is a devastating chronic autoimmune disease affecting multiple organ systems and characterized by a broad array of antibodies. Dr. David Cauvi’s laboratory has identified that a protein called decay accelerating factor (DAF), is increased in lupus-resistant mice. Dr. Cauvi will test whether an elevated level of DAF reduces the development of SLE by treating lupus-prone mice with DAF. At the completion of these experiments, Dr. Cauvi hopes to discover whether or not DAF plays a protective role in the development of SLE. If so, this provides a new target for therapeutic intervention, not only for SLE but for other autoimmune diseases, as well.