BAFF in Autoimmune Diseases: Mechanisms of Immune Dysregulation and Therapeutic Targeting

Abstract

This review article examines the role of B-lymphocyte activating factor (BAFF) in immune regulation and its implications for autoimmune diseases. BAFF, a member of the TNF superfamily, is crucial for B-cell survival, maturation, and differentiation. We detail the mechanisms by which BAFF interacts with its receptors—BAFF receptor, TNFRSF13B, and BCMA—impacting various signaling pathways essential for humoral immunity. Elevated BAFF levels are associated with autoimmune conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and primary Sjögren’s syndrome, where it contributes to B-cell dysregulation and autoinflammatory responses. We discuss how therapies targeting BAFF and associated signaling pathways, such as belimumab and atacicept, show promise in modulating immune responses and offering new treatment avenues. This review synthesizes current findings to highlight the potential of BAFF as a therapeutic target and emphasizes the need for additional studies to clarify its role in the pathogenesis and treatment of autoimmune disorders.