Study of Therapeutic Efficacy of Anti-CD19 CAR-T Cells in Refractory Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a serious autoimmune disease that can lead to extensive damage in multiple organs and systems, ultimately resulting in disability and even death. Children with SLE are particularly at risk of organ damage, especially to the kidneys, and tend to have a more severe and protracted course of the disease compared to adults. Currently, the primary treatment for SLE relies on glucocorticoids and immunosuppressants to alleviate symptoms. However, due to the absence of a curative treatment, patients often require lifelong medication. In recent years, biological agents such as belimumab and rituximab have been introduced for the treatment of SLE, but these agents cannot completely eliminate autoimmune B cells in the bone marrow, leading to unsatisfactory overall outcomes. Furthermore, stopping the drugs can lead to relapse, and there is still no cure for SLE, leaving patients facing the challenges of lifelong medication and an incurable disease. Since 2019, CAR-T cell therapy has been successfully applied to autoimmune diseases. Clinical studies have demonstrated that targeted CD19 CAR-T cells hold significant therapeutic potential for SLE. These cells effectively slow down the pathological progression of SLE and can also effectively treat severe cases. Furthermore, targeted CD19 CAR-T cells are also expected to restore the immune system in SLE patients, potentially allowing them to discontinue lifelong medication and avoid serious long-term side effects of drugs like hormones and immunosuppressants. The purpose of this study is to assess the safety and efficacy of the anti-CD19 CAR-T cells in the treatment of refractory SLE.