Targeting the BLyS-APRIL signaling pathway in SLE

A La Cava - Clinical immunology, 2013 - Elsevier
The B lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS)-A PRoliferation-Inducing Ligand (APRIL) signaling
pathway has an important role in the selection, maturation and survival of B cells and plays a
significant role in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The inhibition of
BLyS, a survival factor for transitional and mature B cells, has recently proven to be
successful in large phase III clinical trials that led to the approval of an anti-BLyS monoclonal
antibody (belimumab) for the treatment of SLE. Yet, there is currently a need to both …