New biomarker 'could aid prediction of rheumatoid arthritis outcomes'

A new biomarker has been discovered that could make it easier to predict which rheumatoidarthritis patients are most likely to experience a positive prognosis. Researchers at Uppsala University have carried out a study showing that antibodies against the cartilage protein collagen II are associated with better outcomes, and could be helpful in determining the best treatment to use for each patient. A link between collagen antibodies and disease development For this study, a large group ofrheumatoid arthritis patients were followed over five years to establish a possible correlation between collagen antibody levels and disease progression rates. Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory disease caused by immune cells attacking healthy tissues, with some patients experiencing an increased formation of antibodies that target collagen II, an important protein in joint cartilage. These antibodies drive the inflammation early in the disease, reaching their highest levels during the first year. In this research, it was shown that patients with collagen antibodies showed increased signs of inflammation during the first six months after diagnosis, with the presence of collagen antibodies at the point of diagnosis also associated with generally better outcomes. By contrast, antibodies against citrullinated peptides were associated with increased inflammation at a later stage, with a more severe disease course in the longer term. The possible benefits This information could be valuable to...
Source: Arthritis Research UK - Category: Rheumatology Source Type: news