Abstract: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a heterogeneous autoimmune disease characterized by multisystem involvement. Despite advances in conventional immunosuppressive therapies, achieving sustained remission remains challenging because of high relapse rates and suboptimal complete remission rates. CD38, a transmembrane glycoprotein with enzymatic, receptor, and adhesion functions, plays an important role in the immunopathogenesis of SLE. This review summarizes the molecular characteristics of CD38 and its aberrant expression in immune cell subsets of patients with SLE. Particular emphasis is placed on recent advances in anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody therapies, including daratumumab, mezagitamab, and CM313, for the treatment of SLE and lupus nephritis. The efficacy, safety, and current limitations of these therapeutic strategies are also discussed. Emerging evidence suggests that CD38-targeted therapies may provide a promising treatment option for refractory SLE and contribute to the development of more precise immunotherapeutic approaches.

Key words: systemic lupus erythematosus, CD38, targeted therapy, monoclonal antibody, lupus nephritis