BAFF and innate immunity: New therapeutic targets for systemic lupus erythematosus

Abstract

Recently, the B cell has emerged as a cornerstone of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) pathogenesis. This has been highlighted by studies of the cytokine B-cell-activating factor of the tumour necrosis factor (TNF) family (BAFF), a crucial factor regulating B-cell maturation, survival and function. Overexpression of BAFF in mice leads to the development of an SLE-like disease, independent of T cells but instead relying on innate immunity mechanisms. Moreover, BAFF has been shown to be elevated in the serum of patients suffering from autoimmune conditions, especially SLE, and may correlate with disease activity. These findings challenge the previous notion that T:B-cell collaboration is the ..