SELP and systemic lupus erythematosus: In SLE patients, anti-dsDNA antibodies in the blood induce strong platelet activation by enhancing P-selectin expression and significant morphological and ultrastructural changes, which are accompanied by mitochondrial depolarization and decreased ATP content, indicating energy depletion.440 Activated platelets may release mitochondria through the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway and the extrusion of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), which is the main source of self-antigens, leading to the onset of lupus.441 Released mitochondrial and mtDNA cause the production of anti-mtDNA antibodies.