Work

T-cell metabolic reprogramming in systemic lupus erythematosus: linking intracellular metabolism to effector differentiation and senescent-like/exhausted-like states

Year: 2026

Type: review

Abstract: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by immune dysregulation and multiorgan inflammation. T-cell metabolic reprogramming has recently emerged as an active area of investigation in the pathogenesis of SLE. This metabolic reprogramming, which involves glycolysis, mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, glutamine metabolism, and lipid metabolism, is associated not only with functional alterations in SLE T cells but also with changes in their differentiation and proliferation, potentially contributing to disease pathogenesis and progression. Moreover, metabolic alterations, including mitochondrial dysfunction and reactive oxygen species accumulation, in the context of persistent T-cell activation may contribute to phenotypic transitions toward senescent-like or exhausted-like states. These two partially overlapping but biologically distinct cellular phenotypes may represent divergent cellular responses to chronic inflammatory stimulation. Rather than representing mutually exclusive states or a simple loss of function, both may contribute to the perpetuation of chronic inflammation, immune imbalance and disease activity. This review summarizes recent advances in T-cell metabolic reprogramming in SLE and its potential relationship to senescent-like and exhausted-like T-cell states.

Source: Frontiers in Immunology

DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2026.1961063

Authors: Yi Zou, Zhichu Ren, Yuki Kudo, Michihito Kono

Institution: Hokkaido University

Language: English

Topic: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Research

Subfield: Rheumatology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801