Novel therapeutics for systemic lupus erythematosus

Purpose of review: This review provides an update on recently explored therapies in systemic lupus erythematosus and introduces novel therapeutic approaches under consideration. Recent advances in our understanding of systemic lupus are highlighted as well, as these must now inform consideration of therapeutics. Recent findings: Many therapeutic strategies have been shown to be beneficial in murine models of lupus. Compounds that inhibit cellular signaling in response to autoantigens or other triggers and protocols that reconstitute the immune repertoire to diminish autoreactivity are now entering clinical trials. Summary: Requirements for novel approaches in lupus include improved efficacy and lower toxicity than current therapies, with the goal to reduce tissue damage while preserving immunocompetence.