Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2026
A Pre-Clinical Model of Synovitis Using Ex vivo Human Synovial Tissue with Preserved Function and Architecture
Published on: March 20, 2026
Animal models of spondyloarthritis
1Laboratory for Skeletal Development and Joint Disorders, Division of Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium. Rik.Lories@uz.kuleuven.be
Purpose Of Review:
The aim of this article is to review new insights into spondyloarthritis obtained in animal models during the last year.
Recent Findings:
HLA-B27 misfolding has been demonstrated in HLA-B27/human beta2-microglobulin transgenic rats. HLA-B27 misfolding is associated with a typical unfolded protein stress response and with an interferon-response signature. Prebiotic treatment of these rats reduced colitis and arthritis. Proteoglycan-induced spondylitis is distinct from proteoglycan-induced arthritis. Specific susceptibility loci for proteoglycan-induced spondylitis have been demonstrated. Bone morphogenetic proteins are important in new cartilage and bone formation in ankylosing enthesitis. Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis-like disease develops in conditional double JunB/c-Jun knockout mice.
Summary:
Insights into the molecular signaling pathways driving HLA-B27 associated spondylitis, autoimmune spondylitis, ankylosing enthesitis and psoriasis, resulting from animal models, identify new and specific therapeutic targets in spondyloarthritis.
