Obinutuzumab for treating serologically active extra-renal lupus

Obinutuzumab is being developed for the treatment of serologically active extra-renal lupus. This condition is a subtype of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) characterised by abnormal levels of specific proteins in the blood, indicating disease activity in organs and tissues outside the kidneys. SLE is an autoimmune condition, which means the body’s natural defence system (immune system) attacks healthy parts of the body. For reasons not yet understood, the immune system in people with SLE starts to attack and inflame healthy cells, tissue and organs. Symptoms include joint and muscle pain, extreme tiredness and rashes. There are currently limited options for the treatment of extra-renal lupus and SLE.