What Do Mouse Models Teach Us about Human Systemic Lupus Erythematosus?

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex and heterogeneous autoimmune disease characterized by the presence of autoantibodies against several autoantigens, with the involvement of multiple organ systems. From 1965 to 2015, research using various murine lupus models has allowed researchers to make significant progress toward understanding the pathogenic mechanisms and treatment of human SLE. It is clear that multiple factors, including genetic susceptibility loci, various immune cells, molecular mediators, and environmental factors, contribute to the genesis and progression of lupus. In addition to a long list of mouse-to-human translational studies, an increasing number of human-to-mouse translational studies are also being performed in the field of lupus. The laboratory mouse continues to be a versatile tool for dissecting out the complexities enshrouding lupus pathogenesis.