Soluble mediators as therapeutic targets in systemic lupus erythematosus: cytokines, immunoglobulin receptors, and the complement system.

Overview

After many years of anticipation, we have entered a period of promise for new lupus therapies; several clinical trials are planned or are in progress. The accelerated activity in systemic lupus erythematosus therapeutics has been driven by scientific advances. Enhanced understanding of the cells and mediators that drive autoimmunity and tissue damage has led to the identification of rational therapeutic targets. The conventional immunosuppressive therapies, including corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide, can be effective but at a high and unacceptable cost of adverse effects. There is high optimism that targeted therapies, including those that are specific for soluble mediators, will allow effective control of disease activity while sparing patients the damaging toxicities that are associated with traditional immunosuppressive agents.