Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease most prevalent in women between the ages of twenty and sixty. Successful treatment remains challenging due to a lack of understanding of the underlying mechanisms and multiple symptoms ranging from skin rashes to glomerulonephritis. The pathogenesis of SLE has been linked to a B-cell hyperproliferation unique to afflicted patients. These B-cells generate large quantities of IgG autoantibodies, ultimately capable of leading to lupus nephritis and renal failure. The significance of cytokines in SLE and in murine lupus, a related disease in mice, has been debated, particularly with respect to B-cell activity. Potential roles of auto-regulatory and inflammatory cytokines have been investigated. In particular, IL-6 and IL-10 have been shown to be key factors in regulating autoantibody-secreting B-cell activity in lupus. Here, we will provide a critical overview of our current knowledge of the regulatory roles of these two cytokines in SLE.
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Received 30 December 1998; accepted by M. J. Parnham 20 February 1999
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Cross, J., Benton, H. The roles of interleukin-6 and interleukin-10 in B cell hyperactivity in systemic lupus erythematosus. Inflamm. res. 48, 255–261 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1007/s000110050456
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s000110050456