Elucidating the role of secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor in Sjögren syndrome. – SLIPSS

Sjögren's syndrome (SjS) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by the destruction of exocrine glands by self-reactive immune cells. About 0.5% of the population is affected with dry mouth and eyes and there is no cure against the disease. The immunopathology of SjS is complex and associated with an intricate crosstalk between various cell types including salivary gland epithelial cells (SGECs), lymphocytes, and innate immune cells. Recent research in the field of autoimmunity, revealed the critical role of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) in preventing these diseases via their strong immunoregulatory capacity. Among them the secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) is highly expressed by the acinar cells in the SGs. SLPI present in the extracellular milieu can penetrate neighboring cells and modulate the function of various immune cells. Our objective is therefore to determine the role of SLPI in the exocrine glands during the development of SjS in murine models and using patient samples. Our project will provide new perspectives in the immunopathology of SjS and could offer new therapeutic opportunities.