A study by La Trobe University researchers found that exercise-based rehabilitation and education can reduce the chance of knee osteoarthritis following ACL reconstruction in people aged under 40, improving pain and quality of life. The intervention is safe and should be recommended to improve knee health in young people at high risk o...
An international study has established age-specific ultrasound reference values to distinguish normal joint changes from early signs of inflammatory arthritis. The study analysed over 28,000 joints from 802 healthy volunteers and developed new thresholds for normal and abnormal findings, which will help clinicians identify inflammatory...
Researchers at the University of Warwick have identified TRPM2 as a direct pain transducer that amplifies chronic pain signals. Blocking TRPM2 with a drug injected into the joint completely reversed arthritis pain in mice, providing a promising new approach to treating chronic pain more effectively.
Researchers identified two immune cell populations present in both initial and recurrent arthritis flares, suggesting an immune-memory disease. These cells may serve as biomarkers for high-risk patients or to guide targeted therapies to reduce side effects.
A new study found that patients from wealthier European countries tend to start biologic treatments earlier but stop or switch treatment earlier, experiencing lower disease activity. The study highlights the importance of ensuring timely and equitable access to effective treatment for patients with PsA and axSpA.
SourceElsevier·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 11, 2026
A randomized controlled trial found that first metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis significantly improves walking-related pain in patients with painful hallux rigidus. The study suggests arthrodesis as a preferred treatment option for some patients, providing a greater reduction in walking-related pain and secondary outcomes.
Researchers have found a new compound that promotes joint health and reduces inflammation-related genes in a model of osteoarthritis. The drug, M04, has shown promise as an innovative OA therapy by slowing down the disease process, giving people more years of pain-free living.
Scientists have discovered a genetic link to back pain, finding that changes in gene activity can lead to the breakdown of spinal discs. The study suggests that phosphate handling and fat metabolism may hold promise as future drug targets.
Exercise produces small improvements in pain and physical function for people with hip osteoarthritis, but those improvements may not be large enough to make a meaningful difference in daily life. Quality of life showed little to no improvement with exercise.
SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateJul 22, 2026
A study published in RMD Open found that specific oral microbiome imbalances may contribute to the development of hand osteoarthritis by influencing systemic inflammation and gut microbiome dysbiosis. The research suggests a potential role for the oral-gut microbiome axis in symptomatic hand arthritis pathogenesis.
Researchers present a roadmap for developing Tregs as adaptable therapies to restore immune balance and support tissue repair. This approach holds promise for treating conditions such as metabolic and cardiovascular disease, as well as neurodegeneration.
The TREM-1 receptor amplifies innate immune responses and is a promising therapeutic target for inflammatory diseases. The review highlights its pathogenic roles in acute systemic inflammation and chronic conditions like inflammatory arthritis and neurodegenerative disorders.
New therapies using regulatory T cells, known as Tregs, could target diseases with inflammation, such as cancer and autoimmune conditions. Early evaluations show good tolerance and safety profiles, but precision is key to tailoring treatments for specific patients.
Elevated Pim1 expression promotes abnormal Th17 cell differentiation in inflammatory arthritis. Targeting Pim1 with Nilotinib inhibits Th17 cell differentiation and alleviates inflammatory arthritis symptoms.
A study characterizes peripheral immune alterations in systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis, identifying a distinct CD14+CXCL10+ monocyte subpopulation associated with inflammatory network remodeling and disease activity. The monocyte subset is enriched in active sJIA states and exists in a heightened state of immune surveillance.
Researchers have found a widely available drug combination to be an effective treatment for patients with systemically active Sjögren's disease. The combination of leflunomide and hydroxychloroquine reduced disease activity while maintaining a favorable safety profile.
A University of Michigan research team is exploring the development of knee exoskeletons to reduce joint contact forces and relieve osteoarthritis pain. Preliminary testing suggests that these orthotic brace-based exos and drone-style motors could provide significant relief.
Researchers at Aarhus University discovered a new compound, 4-octyl itaconate, that inhibits inflammation in joints by activating the body's anti-inflammatory system. This treatment targets synoviocytes instead of immune cells, offering a promising new option for patients with severe or treatment-resistant rheumatoid arthritis.
A new study suggests that ultrasound stimulation can bring about functionally meaningful changes in pain perception and brain connectivity. The research found a delayed analgesic effect, with participants reporting reduced pain intensity after 28-55 minutes following TUS application.
A protein interaction between iNOS and IRG1 has been identified as a key regulator of the immune response. This discovery could lead to new treatments for conditions such as cardiovascular disease, arthritis, and Crohn's disease.
Researchers found that patients taking TNF inhibitors reported better energy levels and mood, while those on IL-6 and JAK inhibitors showed improved physical functioning. This suggests different drug classes offer distinct advantages across quality-of-life domains.
A new study from Aarhus University reveals that weight-loss drugs containing GLP-1 hormone may influence joint inflammation in arthritis patients. The study found that high doses of GLP-1 in medication could have a dual effect, both through weight loss and by increasing levels in the joints.
City St George's, University of London, is partnering with Paradigm Biopharmaceuticals to test a potential treatment for osteoarthritis. The partnership aims to investigate the mechanism of action of pentosan polysulfate sodium (iPPS) on bone marrow lesions, which are linked to pain in osteoarthritis.
A study found that elevation of artemin could serve as a disease marker and potential therapeutic target for osteoarthritis in cats. The researchers confirmed that TRP channels commonly associated with osteoarthritis pain were expressed and functional in healthy cat DRG neurons, and increased artemin blood concentrations were correlate...
Research found that people who spend a higher proportion of their total physical activity doing vigorous activity have substantially lower risks of all eight serious health conditions. The benefits of vigorous activity remained even when the amount of time was modest.
A new study found that a prebiotic fibre supplement reduced pain, improved grip strength, and lowered pain sensitivity in people with knee osteoarthritis. The supplement, inulin, improved grip strength and reduced pain sensitivity, measures linked to how the nervous system processes pain.
Researchers have discovered the protective role of LOXL2 protein in preventing cartilage damage and inflammation in temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis. The enzyme helps suppress inflammatory pathways, reducing cell death and preserving cartilage viability even under inflammatory conditions.
A comprehensive study of collagen supplements found benefits in skin elasticity, hydration, and osteoarthritis symptoms. However, there were no meaningful improvements in sports performance or muscle recovery, dispelling some myths surrounding its use.
Researchers used advanced imaging to uncover early molecular changes in bone associated with osteoarthritis. The study found that subchondral bone beneath damaged cartilage showed strong upregulation of specific collagen fragments, suggesting that disease-related bone changes begin earlier than previously recognized.
Researchers found that certain types of CD8+ killer T cells are more abundant in people with MS and target the EBV virus, indicating the virus may trigger an immune response leading to progressive neurological damage. The study suggests that interfering with EBV could have a significant impact on other autoimmune diseases.
A new study by King's College London found that early treatment with abatacept can delay rheumatoid arthritis (RA) onset in people at high risk for several years. The benefits persist even after treatment has stopped, potentially reducing the number of years people live with symptoms and complications.
Research highlights arthritis' toll on the workforce, with nearly 10 million Americans aged 18-64 experiencing limitations. Overall health and socioeconomic factors are significant contributors to work-related challenges.
The study demonstrates that fexofenadine reduces cartilage degradation, inflammation, and senescence in mice models for OA and IVDD. Pharmacological inhibition of cPLA2 preserves cartilage structure and improves behavioral outcomes.
Two first-in-class antibodies, C01 and C04, have been developed to inhibit inflammation in autoimmune diseases by blocking the high-affinity IgG receptor FcγRI. The antibodies were discovered using a unique immunization method and exhibit higher affinity for FcγRI than human IgG.
Researchers at UMC Utrecht are developing a predictive model to accurately predict disease progress in juvenile dermatomyositis. The Interferon Score aims to identify which children can safely reduce medication and which require intensified treatment.
Scientists have discovered that immune cells shed their glycocalyx layer to move into tissues, changing the understanding of inflammatory skin diseases like psoriasis. This finding may lead to new approaches in developing drugs targeting immune cell movement and treating infections and inflammatory diseases.
A University of Houston researcher identifies a protein that may reduce high ketone levels in diabetic patients, potentially improving health outcomes. The study also shows that the protein promotes muscle ketolysis and running capacity in mice.
A study by UT Arlington researchers found that state welfare policies affect joint pain trends, with states like Colorado and Hawaii seeing significant increases. In contrast, Texas saw a decrease in the educational gap despite increased pain prevalence, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
A study by Mass General Brigham researchers found that tirzepatide offers greater value than semaglutide for most patients with knee osteoarthritis and obesity. Bariatric surgery provides the best option from a clinical and economic perspective for eligible and willing patients.
A new study from the University of Birmingham has found that immune ageing may be a driver of rheumatoid arthritis rather than a consequence of the disease. The research detected features of immune system ageing in the earliest stages of RA, even before clinical diagnosis, suggesting that early intervention is possible.
Researchers have developed an artificial cartilage material that responds to pH changes in the body, releasing anti-inflammatory drugs precisely where and when needed. This approach could improve arthritis treatment outcomes by continuously delivering pain-relieving medication.
A large-scale study published in PLOS Medicine found no association between early life antibiotic exposure and the development of autoimmune diseases in children. Researchers analyzed data from over 4 million Korean children and discovered no increased risk of Type 1 diabetes, Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, or other autoimmune conditions.
A new study by Bournemouth University reveals that spinning can improve recovery outcomes and reduce clinical time needed for physiotherapy treatment compared to standard care. The cycling and education classes prove more cost-effective, contributing to reducing NHS waiting times for hip osteoarthritis patients.
A clinical trial found that high tibial osteotomy (HTO) reduces knee joint damage and improves pain and function in patients with knee osteoarthritis and bowed legs. HTO alters the way people walk, lessening further joint damage, reducing pain, and improving quality of life.
Researchers explore the biological mechanisms of myopenia in RA, finding it affects individuals of all ages, with notable muscle mass loss without concurrent fat loss. The review highlights the diagnostic and therapeutic relevance of myopenia in RA, emphasizing the importance of early detection and tailored management strategies.
A groundbreaking study has uncovered the unique architecture of cells and signals inside the joint as inflammation takes hold in children with arthritis. The research provides a new way forward for understanding this condition, which affects over 10,000 children in the UK.
Researchers investigated the link between HIV treatment regimens and osteoarthritis development, revealing that certain medications like lopinavir can exacerbate OA in the knee. The study's findings have important implications for people living with HIV, highlighting the need to carefully consider treatment options.
Researchers have identified two genes, RNF144B and ENPP1, that cause calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease in Americans of European and African descent. This discovery opens up promising new avenues for targeted prevention and treatment of CPPD disease, which is currently lacking effective options.
SourceElsevier·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 28, 2025
Researchers found corticosteroid injections accelerated structural knee degeneration, while hyaluronic acid injections slowed down damage. The study challenges common clinical practice and suggests alternative pain management strategies for patients with osteoarthritis.
The USC Parris Longevity Accelerator aims to develop early interventions for age-related diseases, including osteoarthritis and cardiovascular disease, through AI-driven diagnostic tools and targeted therapeutics. The initiative could lead to therapies that preserve mobility and restore strength in older adults.
Scientists at Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences have identified a circulating microRNA called miR-126-3p as a mechanistic biomarker of knee osteoarthritis. This discovery may lead to the development of blood tests for early detection and therapeutics for slowing or stopping disease progression.
A new study from the University of Bath reveals that delays in diagnosing and treating psoriatic arthritis often result in irreparable damage to joints. Early diagnosis and effective treatment can prevent this damage and improve physical function and quality of life for patients with PsA.
A new study found that people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and arthritis have a significantly increased risk of death compared to those with only arthritis. The research analyzed data from over 11,000 individuals in the US and discovered a strong association between COPD and mortality rates in people with arthritis.
A new study published in Child Maltreatment found that adults who experienced childhood physical and sexual abuse had double the odds of developing health and mental health conditions. The presence of a protective adult in the home was associated with better long-term health outcomes among children who experienced abuse.
Researchers at RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences have discovered that macrophages, a type of immune cell, work differently throughout the day due to the body's internal clock. This daily rhythm determines when immune cells are most efficient at detecting threats and mounts a response.
Researchers analyzed medical trends for the most common childhood rheumatic disorder, finding that newer biologic and targeted therapies surpassed traditional treatments. The study revealed a significant decline in conventional therapy use and an increase in biologic therapies, particularly adalimumab.
A new intervention will be developed by University of South Australia researchers to help young people with chronic childhood arthritis overcome barriers to physical activity and mental wellbeing. The VITAL Project aims to validate, understand, and empower activity in people with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis, reducing pain invalidatio...
A team of researchers discovered a protein that blocks bone-forming cells by preventing them from maturing. The study found that the protein CLEC14A reduces bone formation, while its absence leads to increased mineralized bone tissue.
A new hand-held scanner can generate highly detailed 3D images in seconds, paving the way for earlier disease diagnosis. The technology uses laser-generated ultrasound waves to visualize subtle changes in blood vessels, helping inform patient care and diagnose conditions like cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Associate Professor Justine Tigno-Aranjuez received a $1 million NSF CAREER Award to study the impact of the NOD2 pathway on inflammation. Her research aims to understand how lipid mediators are produced and how they influence inflammation.