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

• Published in: The Journal of clinical investigation Vol. 119; no. 5; pp. 1066 - 1073
• Main Authors: Cancro, Michael P, D'Cruz, David P, Khamashta, Munther A
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States American Society for Clinical Investigation 01.05.2009
• Subjects: Animals; Antigens; Apoptosis; Autoantibodies - immunology; B cells; B-Cell Activating Factor - physiology; B-Lymphocytes - cytology; B-Lymphocytes - physiology; Biomedical research; Bone marrow; Care and treatment; Cells; Clinical Trials as Topic; Cytokines; Health aspects; Humans; Ligands; Lupus; Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic - immunology; Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic - metabolism; Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic - therapy; Lymphocytes; Models, Biological; Plasma; Science in Medicine; Self Tolerance - physiology; Systemic lupus erythematosus; United Kingdom
• ISSN: 0021-9738; 1558-8238
• DOI: 10.1172/jci38010

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-producing 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.