Abstract: Lupus nephritis (LN) is a serious complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The pathogenesis involves deposition of immune complexes between autoantibodies and autoantigen, cell infiltration, injury of podocyte and endothelial cell, etc. We reviewed the mechanisms of podocyte injury in lupus nephritis including immune complexes, endothelial damage and circulating factors, from a new perspectine to provide ideas for effective treatment.

Key words: lupus nephritis, podocyte injury, mechanisms