In addition to targeting IFNs, a proof of concept study targeting IL-6 has reported potential efficacy,11 and in a phase II study targeting the p40 subunit shared by IL-12 and IL-23, patients treated with mAb ustekinumab 10 mg had a higher response rate according to SRI-4 than patients in the placebo group.12 Nevertheless, a phase III study of ustekinumab has recently been discontinued.13 These findings support the concept that multiple cytokines such as IFN, IL-6 and the IL-12p40 pathway may have a role in SLE pathogenesis and could be viable targets for drug therapy. This evidence concerns the gene IL6 and systemic lupus erythematosus.