Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic disease where the immune system attacks the body’s own healthy tissues. It can affect multiple organs in the body and often comes in cycles -- with periods of flare-ups followed by times of little or no disease activity. SLE can present itself in different ways, including skin rashes, arthritis, anemia, inflammation around the heart, lungs or abdomen, kidney problems, seizures and changes in mental health.

SLE can cause organ failure and skin damage. SLE is the most common form of lupus.

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) is a chronic autoimmune skin disease that can occur with or without systemic manifestations. CLE symptoms include rash, pain, itch and photosensitivity as well as skin damage that may worsen over time and can include irreversible scarring, alopecia and dyspigmentation that can be disfiguring and substantially impact quality of life.

There are currently no advanced therapies for CLE and around 25-30% of the patients may progress to SLE.¹

We aspire to utilize our knowledge of immunological pathways and our scientific and development synergies to positively impact the lives of people living with serious autoimmune diseases such as SLE and CLE. We strive to create a solution that directly targets SLE and CLE at the root of the problem, providing potential new therapies where options are currently limited.

Underrepresented and underserved communities are disproportionately impacted by SLE and CLE, and we are committed to building trusted relationships, increasing clinical trial participation, and aiming for equitable access to our medicines for these communities.

Today, Biogen is developing what could be the first lupus portfolio in the industry, with first-in-class therapies in SLE and CLE. On the cutting-edge of modality innovation, we are working to advance breakthroughs in immunology, with an emphasis on serving those with some of the greatest unmet needs. Our open innovation format aims to create more options for physicians and those living with both CLE and SLE.

Biogen conducts clinical trials in lupus related to the investigational therapies in our pipeline to evaluate the efficacy and safety of potential medicines.

View all recruiting Biogen clinical trials in lupus

Deciding to participate in a clinical trial requires careful consideration. In most cases, the therapies investigated in clinical trials are not yet approved by regulatory agencies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The benefits and risks of taking the treatment are not completely known. By volunteering for a clinical trial, you are helping the medical community determine whether new treatments are safe and effective.

Learn more about clinical trials and access programs