ISD-Immunotech is developing a first-in-class therapy to treat the most severe Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)  patients. The therapy works by dampening the action of an intracellular protein called STimulator of INterferon Genes (STING). STING is part of the innate immune system, the body’s first line of defense against pathogen invaders like bacteria and viruses. When activated, STING ramps up production of inflammatory proteins called interferons and cytokines. STING overactivity has recently been linked to severe SLE. SLE is an autoimmune disease that can affect any organ of the body including the skin, joints, heart, kidneys, lungs, nervous system and others. As immune cells attack the body, inflammation, scarring, and permanent damage ensue, leading to worsened function and sometimes even organ failure and death.