TNFSF13 and systemic lupus erythematosus: In patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), serum levels of BAFF (B-cell-activating factor) and APRIL (a proliferation-inducing ligand), 2 cytokines involved in the maturation and survival of B cells, as well as the soluble fraction of their receptors TACI (transmembrane activator and CAML interactor) and BCMA (B-cell maturation antigen), are elevated and correlate with disease activity (12–17).