Hsa_circ_0010957 level is increased and sponges microRNA‑125b in CD4+ T cells of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a severe autoimmune disorder, the pathogenesis of which remains largely unknown. The present study aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of circular RNAs in the etiopathogenesis of SLE. CD4⁺ T cells in patients with SLE expressed higher levels of hsa_circ_0010957 compared with healthy individuals and was a good differentiator of the active from inactive SLE disease. It was also determined that hsa_circ_0010957 mediated MicroRNA (miR)‑125b/STAT3 signaling and subsequent secretion of inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)‑18, IL‑6 and IL‑17, which are important factors in the process of SLE. Hsa_circ_0010957 abrogated the proinflammatory effect of IL‑6 via the blockade of STAT3 signaling. In conclusion, increased hsa_circ_0010957 may be involved in SLE pathogenesis via miR‑125b/STAT3 signaling. Hsa_circ_0010957 promises to be a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for SLE.