We found that the elevated JAK2 mRNA expression and the decreased PTPRC mRNA expression may play suggestive roles in the pathogenesis of SLE.Key Points• The JAK2 mRNA expression levels in SLE patients were significantly higher than those in healthy controls.• The PTPRC mRNA expression levels in SLE were decreased.• JAK2 and PTPRC mRNA expression may play suggestive roles in the pathogenesis of SLE.