The role of innate lymphoid cells in systemic lupus erythematosus

•Summary of the main phenotypic markers of distinct subsets of innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) .•A brief introduction to the development and immune function of ILCs in recent years.•The role of different subsets of ILCs in the pathogenesis of SLE.•The role of ILCs in SLE involves the kidneys and lungs.•The role of ILCs in SLE involves the skin, liver and Intestinal. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a connective tissue disorder that affects various body systems. Both the innate and adaptive immunity contribute to the onset and progression of SLE. The main mechanism of SLE is an excessive immune response of immune cells to autoantigens, which leads to systemic inflammation and inflammation-induced organ damage. Notably, a subset of innate immune cells known as innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) has recently emerged. ILCs are pivotal in the early stages of infection; participate in immune responses, inflammation, and tissue repair; and regulate the immune function of the body by resisting pathogens and regulating autoimmune inflammation and metabolic homeostasis. Thus, ILCs dysfunction can lead to autoimmune diseases. This review discusses the maturation of ILCs, the potential mechanisms by which ILCs exacerbate SLE pathogenesis, and their contributions to organ inflammatory deterioration in SLE.