Technical Articles

This article systematically elucidates the molecular characteristics and biological functions of B-cell activating factor (BAFF) and proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL), focusing on their roles as members of the TNF ligand family in regulating B-cell survival, proliferation, and differentiation through three receptors (BAFFR, TACI, BCMA). It analyzes the unique structure and functional significance of BAFF/APRIL heterotrimers and explores their pathological relevance in autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus.