Cytokines in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis

Abstract

Cytokines regulate a broad range of inflammatory processes that are implicated in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. In rheumatoid joints, it is well known that an imbalance between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine activities favours the induction of autoimmunity, chronic inflammation and thereby joint damage. However, it remains less clear how cytokines are organized within a hierarchical regulatory network, and therefore which cytokines may be the best targets for clinical intervention a priori. Here, we discuss the crucial effector function of cytokines in the immunological processes that are central to the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis.

Hyperthyroidism is a Risk Factor for Developing Adhesive Capsulitis of the Shoulder: A Nationwide Longitudinal Population-Based Study

“…However, this article stated that how these cytokines are organized within a hierarchical regulatory network remains unclear. In addition, the article stated that TNF-alpha plays a key role because TNF-alpha-blockage agents can are involved in successfully treating RA21. We propose that the pro-inflammatory cytokine and fibrosis process modulation is different in these autoimmune diseases and adhesive capsulitis.…”

“…Cytokines have also been found in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. One review article provided a comprehensive list of related cytokines, such as TNF-alpha, IL 1, 6, 15, 17, and 18, GM-CSF, VEGF, and TGF-beta21. However, this article stated that how these cytokines are organized within a hierarchical regulatory network remains unclear.…”

Pharmacogenomics of infliximab treatment using peripheral blood cells of patients with rheumatoid arthritis

“…Candidates for TNF-independent pathways involve cells and mediators such as interleukin-17, B cells and T cells that have been shown to have major roles in the pathogenesis of RA. 18 Clinical response to TNF-blockade may be determined by the contribution of the TNF-independent pathway(s) to disease. If the TNF pathway is dominant over the others, patients are more likely to elicit clinical improvement after TNF-blockade.…”

Evaluation of therapeutic targets in animal models of arthritis: How does it relate to rheumatoid arthritis?

“…IL-1 is well known for its role in animal models of arthritis, specifically for its influence on bone metabolism (89,90). Drugs focused on blocking the actions of IL-1 have been developed, using either an IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) or antibodies against IL-1 or its receptor.…”