Abstract

IL-17 in systemic lupus erythematosus

Author(s): Wu Qian, Antonio La Cava

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by the production of autoantibodies and the formation of immune complexes that can damage multiple tissues, organs and systems. IL-17 is a proinflammatory cytokine that plays an important role in several autoimmune diseases including SLE. The expression of IL-17 is elevated in both SLE patients and in lupus-prone mice, and it is positively correlated with disease activity. IL-17 also appears to participate in the development of several SLE complications. In this article, we provide an overview and an update of the role of IL-17 in SLE.