CLA Has a Useful Effect on Bone Markers in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic, chronic disease which may increase the risk of osteoporosis. This study was carried out in order to examine the effect of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) on bone markers in rheumatoid arthritis disease which is the most common autoimmune disease. The present study is a randomized double-blind clinical trial. Subjects included 52 patients with active rheumatoid arthritis who were divided into two groups. Group I received standard treatment plus 2 daily 1.25 g capsules (Containing about 2 g of 9-cis 11-trans isomer and 10-cis 12-trans isomer in ratio of 50 -50 CLA in glycerinated form), Group II received standard treatment plus 2 Placebo 1.25 g capsules containing sunflower oil with high oleic acid. Telopeptides C, osteocalcin, and MMP3 were analyzed by ELISA method, PGE₂ was done by competitive enzymatic immunoassay method, and IGF-1 was analyzed by the IRMA method based on the sandwich method and ALK-P of bone. Before and after the intervention, the questionnaires about general information, nutrition assessment and medical history were filled out by the subjects. Nutritional assessment was done by a 24-h record questionnaire for the three-day diet. The results were analyzed using SPSS software (version 18).

There was no significant difference between the groups in enzyme activity of ALK-P of bone, PGE₂ and MMP3 variables. However, differences between the two groups in terms of activity of telopeptides C, Osteocalcin, and IGF1 were significant (P < 0.05). CLA has a potentially beneficial effect on bone markers in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Therefore, in order to study the effect of CLA on bone health in patients with RA and all patients with autoimmune and bone diseases more studies with longer duration and evaluation of bone mass density are required.