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A Cryo-pulverization Protocol for Processing Mouse Paws to Evaluate Molecular Pathways of Tissue Inflammation in a Collagen Induced Arthritis Model
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Published on: October 30, 2019

Biological agents in rheumatoid arthritis

M E Weinblatt1

  • 1Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215.

The Journal of Rheumatology. Supplement
|January 1, 1992
PubMed

Insights

Molecular biology offers new hope for treating systemic rheumatic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis (RA). While early trials had setbacks, emerging therapies like cytokine inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies show promise for targeted interventions.

Area of Science:

  • Rheumatology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other systemic rheumatic diseases present significant treatment challenges.
  • Traditional therapies have limitations in selectivity and efficacy.
  • Advancements in molecular biology are paving the way for novel therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current landscape of molecular biology-based therapies for systemic rheumatic diseases.
  • To highlight emerging treatments and their potential impact on patient care.

Main Methods:

  • Review of preclinical and clinical studies on novel molecular therapies.
  • Analysis of data from trials involving interferon gamma, cytokine inhibitors, growth factors, and monoclonal antibodies.
  • Assessment of the potential for targeted interventions in rheumatic diseases.

Main Results:

  • Initial trials with interferon gamma in RA yielded disappointing results.
  • Cytokine inhibitors, such as interleukin-1 receptor antagonist, are progressing to clinical trials.
  • Growth factors have shown utility in managing specific RA complications.
  • Monoclonal antibodies targeting active cell lines or receptors are under investigation with preliminary positive outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • Molecular biology technologies offer a promising future for developing more selective and effective treatments for systemic rheumatic diseases.
  • Emerging therapies like cytokine inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies represent significant advancements in RA treatment.
  • Continued research and clinical trials are crucial to realizing the full potential of these molecular interventions.

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