Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a systemic autoimmune disease in women of childbearing age. By affecting multiple organs and systems, it causes various symptoms and signs, which makes it a challenging disease for clinical diagnosis and treatment. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common rheumatic disease characterized by chronic inflammation and destruction of the joints. Multiple factors contribute to the onset and development of SLE and RA. Genomic and immunological studies have revealed that both innate and adaptive immune systems are involved in these two autoimmune diseases. Patients’ varied response to treatment highlights diverse pathogenic mechanisms among different individuals. New insight into the immunopathogenesis provides theories for developing potential clinical biomarkers and therapeutic targets of SLE and RA.

To draw attention to these two important autoimmune diseases and update both basic and clinical knowledge of them, we now highlight several subtopics of these two diseases and invite authors who are interested in the area to submit original research articles and review articles.

Potential topics include, but are not limited to:

• Cell interaction, cytokine response, small molecule function, and related signaling pathways that are involved in SLE and RA
• Regulation of immune system and its effect on the development of SLE and RA
• Apoptotic and antiapoptotic mechanism in SLE and RA
• Genetic studies of SLE and RA
• Epidemiological analysis of SLE and RA
• Development of clinical assessment of SLE and RA (serological markers, radiological evaluation, etc.)
• Therapeutic studies of SLE and RA (comparison of different treatments, cost-effect evaluation, etc.)