Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and other forms of lupus represent a heterogeneous group of autoimmune diseases characterized by chronic inflammation and multi-organ involvement, resulting from complex immune dysregulation. Despite significant advances in understanding lupus pathogenesis, therapeutic management remains challenging due to the variability in clinical manifestations, the risk of long-term organ damage, and the limitations of existing therapies in achieving sustained remission.

For decades, lupus treatment has relied primarily on non-specific immunosuppressants such as corticosteroids, antimalarials, and cytotoxic agents. While these agents have improved survival rates, they are associated with considerable toxicity and do not specifically target the underlying mechanisms driving autoimmunity in lupus. Recent years have witnessed a paradigm shift, with the development and approval of biologic and targeted synthetic therapies that interfere with specific immune pathways, such as B-cell signaling (e.g., Belimumab, Rituximab), type I interferon signaling (e.g., Anifrolumab), and intracellular signaling cascades (e.g., JAK inhibitors). These agents offer new hope for more personalized, effective, and safer treatment strategies.

This Research Topic aims to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of current and emerging therapeutic agents for lupus, encompassing both preclinical and clinical perspectives. We welcome original research articles, reviews, systematic reviews, and translational studies focusing on:

• Mechanisms of action and immunological targets of emerging and investigational agents

• Clinical trials evaluating the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of novel or repurposed treatments

• Biomarkers for predicting therapeutic response, disease stratification, and treatment optimization

• Real-world evidence on long-term treatment outcomes and safety profiles

• Innovations in drug development, precision medicine, and patient-tailored therapeutic approaches

We look forward to your valuable contributions to this timely and impactful collection.

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Therapeutic Agents for Lupus Treatment