Murine models of systemic lupus erythematosus

J Biomed Biotechnol. 2011:2011:271694. doi: 10.1155/2011/271694. Epub 2011 Feb 14.

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multifactorial autoimmune disorder. The study of diverse mouse models of lupus has provided clues to the etiology of SLE. Spontaneous mouse models of lupus have led to identification of numerous susceptibility loci from which several candidate genes have emerged. Meanwhile, induced models of lupus have provided insight into the role of environmental factors in lupus pathogenesis as well as provided a better understanding of cellular mechanisms involved in the onset and progression of disease. The SLE-like phenotypes present in these models have also served to screen numerous potential SLE therapies. Due to the complex nature of SLE, it is necessary to understand the effect specific targeted therapies have on immune homeostasis. Furthermore, knowledge gained from mouse models will provide novel therapy targets for the treatment of SLE.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Disease Models, Animal*
  • Genetic Linkage
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease
  • Humans
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / etiology*
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / genetics
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / therapy*
  • Mice*
  • Mice, Inbred NZB