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Review
. 2021 Dec 24;60(Suppl 6):vi21-vi28.
doi: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab498.

New developments in systemic lupus erythematosus

Michel W P Tsang-A-Sjoe  1 , Irene E M Bultink  1
Affiliations
Review

New developments in systemic lupus erythematosus

Michel W P Tsang-A-Sjoe et al. Rheumatology (Oxford). .

Abstract

In this review, the results of recent and ongoing clinical trials in patients with SLE are discussed. After many unsuccessful trials in the past decade, belimumab was the first biologic specifically designed for SLE that met its primary end point. At the same time, studies on the pathophysiology of SLE have further elucidated the pathways involved in the disease, which has led to the identification of new possible therapeutics and has encouraged the initiation of new trials. These new drugs include biologics that target B cells, T cells and type 1 interferons, and small molecules that inhibit kinases. Other therapeutics aim to restore immunological balance by restoring tolerance. Results from phase II and even phase III trials are promising and it is likely that some of the therapeutics discussed will receive approval in the following years. Hopefully, this will allow for more tailor-made medicine for SLE patients in the future.

Keywords: SLE; biologic therapies; targeted therapies; therapy.

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Figures

<sc>Fig</sc>. 1
Fig. 1
Targeted therapies used for the treatment or currently used in clinical trials in SLE APC: antigen presenting cell; BAFF: B-cell activating factor; BDCA2: blood dendritic cell antigen 2; BTK: Bruton’s tyrosine kinase; CD40L: CD40 ligand; IFNR: IFN receptor; JAK: Janus kinase
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