title: To target or not to target APRIL in systemic lupus erythematosus: that is the question!
abstract: Among the cytokines that regulate B-cell homeostasis are the TNF-like ligands B-lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS; also B-cell activation factor) and a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL). BLyS and APRIL share two receptors; that is, B-cell maturation antigen and transmembrane activator and CAML interactor. Therapeutic approaches using biologics are limited for treatment of lupus patients. One previously approved drug is belimumab, which antagonizes the B-cell stimulator BLyS. Atacicept, another biologic inhibiting BLyS and APRIL, was terminated for serious adverse events--raising the question of whether APRIL should be neutralized in autoimmune diseases.
authors: Jacques
authors: J
authors: Morel
authors: Michael
authors: M
authors: Hahne
mesh_terms: D015415:Biomarkers / Q000097:blood*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007668:Kidney / Q000378:metabolism*; D008181:Lupus Nephritis / Q000097:blood*; D008297:Male; D053300:Tumor Necrosis Factor Ligand Superfamily Member 13 / Q000097:blood*
chemical_list: D015415:Biomarkers; C114631:TNFSF13 protein, human; D053300:Tumor Necrosis Factor Ligand Superfamily Member 13