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Updated: May 13, 2026
12:04
The bm12 Inducible Model of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) in C57BL/6 Mice
Published on: November 1, 2015
B-cell-targeted therapies in systemic lupus erythematosus
Vera Sau-Fong Chan1, Helen Hoi-Lun Tsang, Rachel Chun-Yee Tam
1Department of Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
Cellular & Molecular Immunology
|March 5, 2013
Summary
B cells play a key role in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) pathogenesis. Targeting B cells, particularly with agents like belimumab (anti-BLyS), shows therapeutic promise for SLE treatment.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Autoreactive B cells are central to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) pathogenesis.
- B cells contribute to SLE by producing auto-antibodies and pro-inflammatory cytokines.
- B cells also function as antigen-presenting cells, priming autoreactive T cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of B cells in SLE pathogenesis.
- To examine B-cell modulation as a therapeutic strategy for SLE.
- To update on clinical trials of B-cell-targeting agents in SLE.
Main Methods:
- Review of animal and human studies on B cells in SLE.
- Analysis of clinical trial data for B-cell-targeting therapies.
- Evaluation of agents targeting CD20, CD22, and B-lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS).
Main Results:
- B-cell modulation is a promising strategy for SLE treatment.
- Clinical trials for CD20, CD22, and BLyS antagonists have yielded mixed results.
- Belimumab (anti-BLyS) shows promise and is FDA-approved for mild to moderate SLE.
Conclusions:
- B cells are critical targets for SLE therapy.
- Advances in B-cell immunology are crucial for understanding SLE and developing novel treatments.
- Belimumab represents a significant therapeutic advance in SLE management.
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