Dendritic cell immunotherapy: A novel approach for treating systemic lupus erythematosus

Dendritic cells (DCs) play a crucial role in orchestrating innate and adaptive immune responses. Consequently, dysfunction in DCs is implicated in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE); therefore, there is a need for research into DC therapy in the management of SLE.¹

Jonny et al. recently published an article in Therapeutic Advances in Vaccines and Immunotherapy, presenting a case of a 13-year-old girl with diverse clinical manifestations and an SLE diagnosis. Following inadequate response with immunosuppressants, she was administered with a DC based SARS-CoV-2 S protein vaccination that resulted in significant improvements in manifestations and laboratory findings, starting from Day 1 (Figure 1).

ACR, American College of Rheumatology; ANA, antinuclear antibody; DC, dendritic cell; EULAR, European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology; IV, intravenous; IVIG, IV immunoglobulin; SARS-CoV-2, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2; SC, subcutaneous; SLE, systemic lupus erythematosus; SELENA-SLEDAI, Safety of Estrogens in Lupus Erythematosus National Assessment-Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index.
*Data from Jonny, et al.¹ 

Administration of DC vaccine resulted in significant clinical benefits, with a favorable safety profile in a pediatric patient with SLE. Therefore, DC immunotherapy is a promising novel treatment option for SLE that warrants further investigation.^1,2