The role of B lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS) in systemic lupus erythematosus

TY - JOUR

T1 - The role of B lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS) in systemic lupus erythematosus

AU - Cancro, Michael P.

AU - D'Cruz, David P.

AU - Khamashta, Munther A.

PY - 2009/5/1

Y1 - 2009/5/1

N2 - SLE, a chronic, multisystem autoimmune disorder with a broad range of symptoms, involves defective B cell selection and elimination of self-reactive B cells. B lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS), a soluble ligand of the TNF cytokine family, is a prominent factor in B cell differentiation, homeostasis, and selection. BLyS levels affect survival signals and selective apoptosis of autoantibody-producting B cells. High levels of BLyS may relax B cell selection and contribute to autoantibody production, exacerbating the SLE disease state. This review discusses the mechanism of BLyS action on B cells, its role in SLE, and specific targeting of BLyS in the treatment of SLE.

AB - SLE, a chronic, multisystem autoimmune disorder with a broad range of symptoms, involves defective B cell selection and elimination of self-reactive B cells. B lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS), a soluble ligand of the TNF cytokine family, is a prominent factor in B cell differentiation, homeostasis, and selection. BLyS levels affect survival signals and selective apoptosis of autoantibody-producting B cells. High levels of BLyS may relax B cell selection and contribute to autoantibody production, exacerbating the SLE disease state. This review discusses the mechanism of BLyS action on B cells, its role in SLE, and specific targeting of BLyS in the treatment of SLE.

U2 - 10.1172/JCI38010

DO - 10.1172/JCI38010

M3 - Literature review

VL - 119

SP - 1066

EP - 1073

JO - Journal of Clinical Investigation

JF - Journal of Clinical Investigation

IS - 5

ER -