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The role of interleukin-17 in mediating joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis

Xia Li1, Feng-lai Yuan, Wei-guo Lu

  • 1The Third Hospital Affiliated to Nantong University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214041, China.

Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications
|June 2, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Interleukin-17 (IL-17) signaling contributes to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) joint destruction. Blocking IL-17/IL-17R effectively controls RA symptoms and prevents joint damage.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Rheumatology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting 1% of the global population, leading to progressive joint destruction.
  • Current treatments for joint destruction in RA are limited due to incomplete understanding of its molecular mechanisms.
  • Cytokine-mediated immunity, particularly involving Interleukin-17 (IL-17), is implicated in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases like RA.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To discuss the biological characteristics of the IL-17/IL-17R pathway.
  • To summarize recent findings on the role of IL-17/IL-17R in the pathogenesis of joint destruction in RA.
  • To review the therapeutic potential of targeting IL-17/IL-17R for RA treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on IL-17 biology and its role in autoimmune diseases.
  • Analysis of studies investigating IL-17's effects on joint inflammation and bone/joint damage.
  • Examination of research on the efficacy of IL-17/IL-17R signaling blockade in preclinical models of RA.

Main Results:

  • IL-17, produced by Th17 cells, exhibits pro-inflammatory properties that can exacerbate bone and joint damage.
  • IL-17 promotes joint destruction via the induction of matrix metalloproteinases and osteoclasts.
  • Experimental models show intra-articular IL-17 injection causes knee joint inflammation and damage in mice.
  • Blocking the IL-17/IL-17R pathway has demonstrated effectiveness in managing RA symptoms and preventing joint destruction.

Conclusions:

  • The IL-17/IL-17R pathway plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Targeting IL-17/IL-17R signaling represents a promising therapeutic strategy for controlling RA progression and preventing joint damage.

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