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New point of focus found for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases

A research team at VIB has identified a new anti-inflammatory mechanism of the protein A20, which can help treat autoimmune diseases like Rheumatoid Arthritis. By understanding how A20 interacts with signaling pathways, scientists can develop new therapies to combat inflammation and disrupt the immune system's attack on its own tissues.

New attack on pain

Researchers have discovered that blocking GM-CSF action can suppress both pain and inflammation in experimental models of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. This breakthrough could lead to a new therapy for patients suffering from debilitating conditions.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateAug 21, 2012

Gum disease 4 times as common in rheumatoid arthritis patients

A study found that rheumatoid arthritis patients are four times more likely to develop gum disease, with severe cases associated with increased inflammatory markers and antibodies. Gum disease in these patients may contribute to the development and maintenance of systemic inflammation.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateAug 8, 2012

New animal model for rheumatoid arthritis

Researchers at Northwestern University have created an animal model that spontaneously develops rheumatoid arthritis and is predisposed to atherosclerosis. The model allows scientists to examine the systemic influence of inflammatory arthritis on the development of heart disease, with promising results from treatment with Enbrel.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 27, 2012

Smoking negatively affects response to anti-TNF treatment in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

A new study found that smoking significantly affects the response to anti-TNF treatment in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, as measured by disease activity scores and clinical indices. Smoking cessation strategies may help maximize treatment effectiveness and improve quality of life for these patients.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 8, 2012

Early menopause predicts a milder form of rheumatoid arthritis

A new study published at EULAR 2012 found that patients with early menopause are 50% less likely to develop severe rheumatoid arthritis. The research also revealed a link between hormonal changes and distinct pathways leading to disease progression. Early menopause was associated with a milder form of the chronic inflammatory disease.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 8, 2012

Lung changes are present in nearly half of ACPA positive RA patients at disease onset

A new study reveals that lung changes are a primary manifestation of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in ACPA-positive patients. The study found HRCT abnormalities and local production of ACPA in the lungs of patients before RA onset, suggesting site-specific extra-articular changes as the initiating event of the immune response.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 8, 2012

New potential target for rheumatoid arthritis

Researchers have found a new potential target for rheumatoid arthritis by developing an agent that prevents activated T cells from migrating towards the site of inflammation. The agent, PS372424, binds to a specific receptor CXCR3 on activated T cells and 'blinds' them, preventing further damage.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 5, 2012

Women with rheumatoid arthritis and lupus give birth to fewer children

Research published in Arthritis Care & Research found that women with rheumatoid arthritis and lupus tend to have fewer children than desired due to increased infertility rates. The study also revealed that concerns about caring for children and genetic transmission of the disease may contribute to this trend.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateFeb 16, 2012

New 'bouncer' molecule halts rheumatoid arthritis

Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered a new protein called P21, which acts as a protective barrier against hyperactive immune cells in people with rheumatoid arthritis. By inhibiting the immune cells' destructive rampage, the bouncer molecule halts the disease process, offering a promising new avenue for future therapies.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateSep 7, 2011

Toronto researchers first to discover new genetic clue in the development of rheumatoid arthritis

Researchers at Mount Sinai Hospital and University of Toronto identified the PTPN22 gene mutation's impact on immune cells, leading to hyper-immune responses and autoimmune disorders. The study's findings will help develop new diagnostic tests and targeted therapies for rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions.

SourceSamuel Lunenfeld Research Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 14, 2011

The use of placebo in rheumatoid arthritis clinical trials may negatively impact patients

A new study by EULAR suggests that using placebo in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) clinical trials can negatively impact patients. The study analyzed current study designs for new therapies and found that patients in the placebo group experienced no change in medication, forcing them to continue with their former ineffective treatment.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateMay 27, 2011