Proliferative lupus nephritis is a serious form of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), that can result in scarring and impaired kidney function. As a leader in the field of rare diseases, including conditions like proliferative lupus nephritis, our company is dedicated to delivering comprehensive and convenient one-stop services to our valued customers.
Overview of Proliferative Lupus Nephritis
In the classification of lupus nephritis, proliferative lupus nephritis (classes III and IV) is differentiated from non-proliferative forms (classes I, II, and V) based on the presence of active proliferative lesions in the glomeruli, which are the structural units responsible for filtration in the kidneys. Proliferative lupus nephritis, characterized by active proliferative lesions in the glomeruli, signifies a more severe form of kidney involvement compared to non-proliferative forms. Individuals with proliferative lupus nephritis may present with symptoms such as swelling, foamy urine, high blood pressure, and reduced kidney function.

Fig.1 A simplified cross section of the glomerulus. (Katikaneni, D.,
et al., 2024)
Pathogenesis of Proliferative Lupus Nephritis
The pathogenesis of proliferative lupus nephritis involves a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, environmental triggers, and dysregulation of the immune system. In the context of SLE, aberrant immune responses lead to the formation of immune complexes comprising antibodies and self-antigens that deposit in the kidney's glomeruli. This deposition triggers an inflammatory cascade, promoting cellular proliferation, and fibrotic changes, and ultimately compromising renal function.

Fig.2. Prevalence of different lupus nephritis classes among adult individuals. (Zahab, M.,
et al., 2021)
Biomarkers Development of Proliferative Lupus Nephritis
Distinguishing between proliferative lupus nephritis and membranous lupus nephritis is essential in understanding the progression and management of the disease. Some non-histological factors such as autoantibodies in lupus nephritis can provide additional information, useful in distinguishing proliferative nephritis from membranous nephritis.
Anti-nucleosome antibodies
Anti-cardiolipin antibodies
Therapeutics Development of Proliferative Lupus Nephritis
Drug Names |
Drug Types |
Mechanism of Action |
Research Phase |
Voclosporin |
Small molecule inhibitor |
A novel calcineurin inhibitor |
Approval |
Zanubrutinib |
Small molecule inhibitor |
Inhibition of BTK activity |
Phase II trials |
Mizoribine |
Small molecule inhibitor |
Inhibit purine synthesis pathway |
Phase III trials |
Anifrolumab |
Antibody |
A type I INF receptor antagonist |
Phase III trials |
Obinutuzumab |
Antibody |
A humanized type II anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody |
Approval |
Belimumab |
Antibody |
Reduce active B cells |
Approval |
Disclaimer: Protheragen focuses on providing preclinical research services. This table is for information exchange purposes only. This table is not a treatment plan recommendation. For guidance on treatment options, please visit a regular hospital.
Our Services
Our company's animal models and therapy development platforms can support your research at any stage from disease mechanisms to innovative therapy development. Leveraging
animal models and
therapeutic development platforms of our company can be instrumental in elucidating disease mechanisms exploring innovative therapies, and advancing the development process in the field of diagnostics and therapeutics of rare diseases.
Therapy Development Platforms
Animal Models of Proliferative Lupus Nephritis
Animal models provide valuable insights into the pathogenesis of proliferative lupus nephritis and help in understanding the complex interplay between immunological factors and renal damage. Our company can provide a variety of animal models of lupus nephritis for you, offer valuable resources for investigating potential therapeutic interventions.
Chemical-induced Models
In these models, the administration of the chemical to animals can induce the development of a lupus-like syndrome. Such as the production of autoantibodies, and immune complex deposition.
Optional Models: Pristane-induced model; Mercuric chloride-induced model, etc.
Spontaneous Genetic models
Some mouse strains, such as the BXSB and MRL/lpr model, develop a spontaneous lupus-like syndrome, including proliferative glomerulonephritis, due to specific genetic mutations or combinations of genetic factors.
Optional Models: MRL/lpr model; BXSB model; NZB/NZW F1 model, etc.
Genetically Engineered Models
Transgenic or gene-editing techniques are being used to overexpress or knock out specific genes known to play a role in the pathogenesis of lupus nephritis.
Optional Models: Fcgr2b-/- model, etc.
Our company is equipped with advanced infrastructure and professional technical personnel, driven by innovative ideas, and can provide you with
pharmacokinetic research and
drug safety evaluation services. If you are interested in learning more about our services and how we can support your research endeavors, please do not hesitate to
reach out to us for further information.
References
- Katikaneni, Divya et al. "Animal models of lupus nephritis: the past, present and a future outlook." Autoimmunity 57.1 (2024): 2319203.
- Zahab, Mohamed et al. "Treatment Outcomes of Proliferative vs. Non-proliferative Adult Lupus Nephritis: A 10-Year Follow-Up." Cureus 13.8 (2021): e16955.
All of our services and products are intended for preclinical research use only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.