New therapies for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that, although uncommon, affects millions of patients worldwide. The foundation of therapy with antimalarials, corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, such as azathioprine or cyclophosphamide, has remained unchanged for a number of years. However, these drugs can be associated with significant side effects. Limitations of existing agents have driven interest in developing new therapies for SLE.

Keywords::

• BAFF
• B-cell depletion
• immune activation
• systemic lupus erythematosus

Notes