DNA and clinical information are used to look for similarities and differences between people with SLE and those unaffected by the disease. These data can be used to identify genetic differences that are more common in SLE patients and then ask how these genetic factors affect the immune system and how they influence the nature and severity of the disease. Current recruitment status for this study is 220 patients.

Observational, single site study. There are many reports that strongly suggest that certain bacteria living in the mouth and in the intestines of RA patients may cause and/or worsen RA. The purpose of the observational IRMA study is to identify RA patients who also have periodontitis (inflammation in their gums caused by bacteria) and compare them to healthy individuals. We will compare the presence of bacteria in the mouth with the RA disease activity and severity and investigate whether the presence of periodontitis and certain bacteria are related to the inflammation in joints and severity of RA disease. The long term goal is to determine if treating periodontitis, caused by certain bacteria, may help to improve the outcomes for patients with RA. Current recruitment status for this study is 12 patients.