Role of IL-21 in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects multiple organ systems and tissues. Activation and differentiation of autoreactive T and B cells, and the formation of pathogenic autoantibodies are central to disease pathogenesis. IL-21 is the most recently identified member of the family of cytokines whose receptors share the common γ c . IL-21 is a pleotropic cytokine that regulates the activation, differentiation and expansion of B and T cells. Here, we review the role of IL-21 in T and B cell biology, and provide insight into the potential role of IL-21 in the development of SLE.

Cytokine Biology-Cytokines at the Interface of Health and Disease

“…Moreover, Drs. Jung and Guay describe the role of IL21 in SLE in this issue, reviewing data from both patients and several rodent models of disease [27]. As this issue focusses on cytokines at the interface of health and disease, Niu and Chen examine IL21 from the stand point of cancer clearance and autoimmunity [28].…”