gene encoding the receptor for tumor necrosis factor (TNF) 1 is associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) but not rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or other autoimmune conditions.
In patients with RA, survivin is essential for the survival of leukocytes as they differentiate and mature into dendritic cells, thereby raising it as a potential therapeutic target.
In patients with simultaneous systemic and arthritic components of systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (SJIA), these components appear to be related mechanistically. Moreover, the inflammatory pathways of SJIA appear to be distinct from those seen in polyarticular JIA.
Toll-like receptors appear to play an important role in the pathogenesis of fibrotic disorders including nephrogenic systemic fibrosis and systemic sclerosis.
Researchers have identified a unique population of entheseal resident cells that can be activated by interleukin 23 (IL-23). This finding may be key to understanding how dysregulation of IL-23 results in precise inflammation of the entheses.
Chondrocytes play an important role in cartilage repair as well as symptom relief. Research published in Science provides insights into the role of stem cell–based therapies in the promotion of chondrogenesis and cartilage repair.