Autoimmune diseases include systemic, chronic, and inflammatory diseases, characterised by sustained inflammation and immune disorders in local tissues and specific organs, such as the lungs, kidneys, and heart. Early diagnosis and standard treatment are essential for preventing disease progression.

Investigation into the role of inflammation in autoimmune disease pathogenesis has almost exclusively centred on systemic inflammation and immune events. To understand the mechanisms of autoimmune diseases, the role of inflammation and regional immune balance in specific tissues and organs has to be evaluated. Controlling inflammation and maintaining regional immune balance are essential strategies for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. In particular, the identification of new makers in the regulation of inflammation and autoimmunity is critical for the diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune diseases. The development of new validated markers for local inflammation and regional immunity for the prevention of rheumatic diseases is a promising area of research, but still needs extensive work.

The aim of this Special Issue is to publish high-quality original research, as well as review articles on advancements in markers of local inflammation and regional immunity balance in autoimmune diseases. Research into local inflammation and regional immunity balance will provide new insights into the diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune diseases.

Potential topics include but are not limited to the following:

• Identification of molecules that play a pivotal role in driving the pathological development of autoimmune diseases
• Exploration of specific markers closely related to different stages of disease development or the severity of inflammatory reaction
• Identification of potential biotargets and related signal pathway nodes that are involved in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases
• Exploration of effective blocking agents for the prevention of inflammation and autoimmune disorders
• Identification of specific circulating markers or other markers predicting the prognosis of autoimmune diseases