The role of cytokines in the immunopathogenesis of lupus

Increasing data suggest that human and murine lupus are heterogeneous diseases and that, in genetically susceptible individuals, lupus may be the final common pathway of a number of etiological agents and/or immunological processes. This review has discussed a number of cytokines which appear to be involved in lupus pathogenesis. The models that we have put forward illustrate several possible mechanisms which may lead to lupus. During the next several years, the exact role of these cytokine in the pathogenesis of lupus should become more fully elucidated. Hopefully, this knowledge will provide the framework for newer, highly specific immunotherapeutic approaches to the treatment of this fascinating, complex, and potentially devastating disease.