 |
|
Genes may determine success of anti-inflammatory therapy for rheumatoid arthritis
June 14, 2001Small genetic differences may explain why the same drug works well in one individual but not in another. These genetic variations could be exploited to develop individually tailored treatment programmes for rheumatoid arthritis, Swedish researchers said today.
Speaking at the Press Conference during EULAR 2001, the prestigious annual congress of the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR), Dr Leonid Padyukov, of the Karolinska Hospital in Stockholm, presented new data from a study of 123 patients with active rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The study focused on genetic differences that influence the activity of tumour necrosis factor (TNF), a molecule that plays a pivotal role in the progression of RA. TNF is a pro-inflammatory cytokine, a protein that once activated, stimulates other immune cells to attack the joints and surrounding tissues. Drugs that block TNF activity are now in use for the treatment of this potentially crippling disease.
"We know that the regulation of cytokine production at the genetic level can involve several different genetic variations or polymorphisms in control regions in DNA. We also know that different patients with RA respond differently to anti-TNF therapy. Our study set out to see if this difference in response to treatment may be due partly to the patient's individual genetic polymorphisms," explained Dr Padyukov.
Patients were treated with the TNF-blocking therapy etanercept, a soluble TNF receptor that ties up circulating TNF and down-regulates the inflammation in RA patients. These patients were then grouped according to whether or not they responded to treatment. The researchers analysed DNA from the patients and found that certain genetic polymorphisms were associated with response to treatment.
"We found distinct polymorphisms in genes for TNF and interleukin 10 (IL-10). Patients with a certain type of both the TNF and IL-10 polymorphism, -308 TNFA and -1082 IL-10, were most likely to respond to treatment," said Dr Padyukov.
Commenting on the importance and clinical relevance of these findings,
Dr Padyukov concluded by saying: "The potential of using genetic markers to identify patients with RA who might most benefit from anti-TNF drugs is a very attractive development. It could help rheumatologists to optimise patient treatment and make the most of available resources. With the publication of the human genome map and sequence this year, we are likely to see significant advances in this growing field of tailoring and individualisation of therapy."
Gardiner-Caldwell Communications Ltd
Patients were treated with the TNF-blocking therapy etanercept, a soluble TNF receptor that ties up circulating TNF and down-regulates the inflammation in RA patients. These patients were then grouped according to whether or not they responded to treatment. The researchers analysed DNA from the patients and found that certain genetic polymorphisms were associated with response to treatment.
"We found distinct polymorphisms in genes for TNF and interleukin 10 (IL-10). Patients with a certain type of both the TNF and IL-10 polymorphism, -308 TNFA and -1082 IL-10, were most likely to respond to treatment," said Dr Padyukov.
Commenting on the importance and clinical relevance of these findings,
Dr Padyukov concluded by saying: "The potential of using genetic markers to identify patients with RA who might most benefit from anti-TNF drugs is a very attractive development. It could help rheumatologists to optimise patient treatment and make the most of available resources. With the publication of the human genome map and sequence this year, we are likely to see significant advances in this growing field of tailoring and individualisation of therapy."
Gardiner-Caldwell Communications Ltd
Arthritis Current Events and Arthritis News RSSToo much physical activity may lead to arthritis
Middle-aged men and women who engage in high levels of physical activity may be unknowingly causing damage to their knees and increasing their risk for osteoarthritis, according to a study presented today at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).
Multiple health concerns surface as winter, vitamin D deficiences arrive
A string of recent discoveries about the multiple health benefits of vitamin D has renewed interest in this multi-purpose nutrient, increased awareness of the huge numbers of people who are deficient in it, spurred research and even led to an appreciation of it as "nature's antibiotic."
Can EP4 agonist alleviate gastric lesions?
Over 300 million patients use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in the world to treat pain, arthritis, fever and other diseases. Nearly 30% of the users suffer from gastric lesions and bleeding.
Thoughtful words help couples stay fighting fit
Couples who bring thoughtful words to a fight release lower amounts of stress-related proteins, suggesting that rational communication between partners can ease the impact of marital conflict on the immune system.
Penn Study Provides First Clear Idea of How Rare Bone Disease Progresses
An international team of scientists, led by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, is taking the first step in developing a treatment for a rare genetic disorder called fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP), in which the body's skeletal muscles and soft connective tissue turns to bone, immobilizing patients over a lifetime with a second skeleton.
Aileron collaborates study in Nature: Stapled peptides inhibit Notch1 transcription factor
This research validates the potential for Stapled Peptides to modulate key intracellular biological targets, such as transcription factors, that have not been addressable with current small molecule or biologic drug modalities.
Researchers find new way to attack inflammation in Graves' eye disease
A small group of patients with severe Graves' eye disease experienced rapid improvement of their symptoms - and improved vision - following treatment with the drug rituximab.
Common Pain Relievers May Dilute Power of Flu Shots
With flu vaccination season in full swing, research from the University of Rochester Medical Center cautions that use of many common pain killers - Advil, Tylenol, aspirin - at the time of injection may blunt the effect of the shot and have a negative effect on the immune system.
Mending meniscals in children, improving diagnosis and recovery
The meniscus is a rubber-like, crescent moon-shaped cartilage cushion that sits between the leg and thigh bone. Each knee has two menisci: one on the inside of the knee joint and one on the outside.
Study finds link between childhood physical abuse and arthritis
Adults who had experienced physical abuse as children have 56 per cent higher odds of osteoarthritis compared to those who have not been abused, according to a new study by University of Toronto researchers.
More Arthritis Current Events and Arthritis News Articles
 |
Imak Arthritis Gloves Medium (Pack of 2) by IMAK The IMAK Arthritis Gloves help relieve aches, pains and stiffness associated with Arthritis of the hands. The unique design provides mild compression, offers warmth and helps increase circulation and promote healing. The Arthritis Gloves are made of soft |
 |
Conquering Arthritis: What Doctors Don't Tell You Because They Don't Know by Barbara D Allan (Author) This book is newly revised and updated with important updates that make healing from arthritis even easier and quicker. It has been used with great success by many people with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and other forms of arthritis, to heal themselves. It provides practical, detailed information that is critical for the successful healing of arthritis, but that has never before been collected in one place. The information is organized into a well-researched, easy-to-follow plan for getting well again and includes case histories of people with dramatic and lasting recoveries. It focuses not just on coping with the symptoms of arthritis, but on correcting its underlying causes using proven alternative medicine and pain management techniques. ... |
 |
Arthritis Dexterity Kit - Set of 11 Aids for Daily Living by Distributed by Wellhaven Gifts for Seniors & Boomers Make everyday tasks easier with the Dexterity Kit. It contains 11 products that help provide arthritis pain relief. The Dexterity Kit contains: 1 Folding Zipper & Button Puller - for home or travel use, 2 Spoon & Fork Holders - removable - use with your existing silverware, 2 Lamp Switch Enlargers - no permanent installation required, 3 Pen and Pencil Cushions - use on artist paint brushes, knitting needles, etc., 3 E-Z Key Turners - 3 different colors for key color coding |
 |
Arthritis Advantage-Once Daily Arthritis Therapy, 96 Caplets (3 Pack) by Digestive Advantage |
 |
The Arthritis Cure, Revised and Updated: The Medical Miracle That Can Halt, Reverse, And May Even Cure Osteoarthritis by Jason Theodosakis (Author), Sheila Buff (Author), Barry Fox (Author) Since its original publication in 1996, The Arthritis Cure has swept the nation, providing amazing relief for the millions who suffer chronic arthritis pain. By outlining a nine-point program that includes a new effective supplement, ASU, The Arthritis Cure Revised Edition describes a program that can halt, reverse, and possibly even cure degenerative osteoarthritis. Based on the most recent and cutting-edge medical research, this invaluable resource promises readers: --The latest research indicating that prescription arthritis drugs are not only expensive but can also be dangerous--they can raise blood pressure and damage the kidneys. --New studies supporting the use of glucosamine and chondroitin to treat arthritic symptoms. --Dr. Theodosaki's ratings of the current... |
 |
Arthritis Advantage for Arthritis Dietary Supplement Caplets, 32-Count Box (Pack of 2) by Arthritis Advantage APR Arthritis Advantage for relief of arthritis symptoms |
 |
Arthritis Gloves - Medium - 1 pair by Imak IMAKs® Arthritis Gloves are designed to help relieve aches, pains, and stiffness associated with arthritis of the hands. The unique design of the IMAK Arthritis Gloves provides mild compression for warmth and helps increase circulation, which ultimately reduces pain and promotes healing. The Arthritis Gloves are made of soft, breathable cotton Lycra®, meaning they are comfortable enough to wear all day and night. The open fingertips allow you complete freedom to feel, touch and grip, so you can perform daily tasks without issue. |
 |
Arthritis, What Exercises Work: Breakthrough Relief For The Rest Of Your Life, Even After Drugs & Surgery Have Failed by Dava Sobel (Author), Arthur C. Klein (Author) What is the most powerful arthritis treatment ever developed to help restore you to a healthy, pain-free, and vigorous life--for the rest of your life? It's the very same breakthrough that has: --Helped more arthritis sufferers than drugs, surgery, or any other treatment--without dangerous side effects. --Been widely prescribed by medical doctors and other health practitioners. The answer? Exercise. Here are the right exercises for your kind of arthritis, pain-level, age, occupation, and hobbies. And they're the most effective exercises for arthritis available anywhere--rated "best" by arthritis sufferers themselves in an unprecedented nationwide survey...supported by medical doctors...and backed by the latest research. only this book has them. Let... |
 |
Duro-Med Arthritis Natural Pain Relief Microwavable Therabead Moist Heat Standard Pack with Cover, 9 X 12 by Duro-Med Duro-Med Industries' amazing Therabeads microwaveable heat products represent a major breakthrough in moist heat therapy. TheraBeads delivers moist heat safely and effectively. By utilizing the convenience of a microwave oven, TheraBeads provide therapeutic moist heat at the correct temperature levels needed for effective therapy. Full 9"x12" size is ideal for most parts of the body including shoulders, knees and back. Deliver uniform moist heat to help relieve soreness and stiffness. With proper care Therabeads can be used indefinately. Includes wrap cover. |
 |
Imak Arthritis Gloves Large (Pack of 2) by IMAK The IMAK Arthritis Gloves help relieve aches, pains and stiffness associated with Arthritis of the hands. The unique design provides mild compression, offers warmth and helps increase circulation and promote healing. The Arthritis Gloves are made of soft |
| © 2009 BrightSurf.com |