Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is one of the representative systemic autoimmune diseases, which is characterized by the presence of autoantibodies and involves virtually any organ. Lupus nephritis represents a crucial complication because renal outcomes in patients with lupus nephritis are poor despite the use of immunosuppressive therapy1. A previous study has shown that approximately one-third of patients with lupus nephritis progress to end-stage renal disease within 20 years2. An understanding of its detailed pathogenesis is urgently needed to find better therapeutic approaches.