Increased expression of the proprotein convertase enzyme FURIN in rheumatoid arthritis

FURIN is a proprotein convertase enzyme that inhibits the proinflammatory function of T cells and myeloid cells. Elevated FURIN expression levels have been reported in immune-mediated diseases, such as primary Sjögren's syndrome. Here, we investigated the levels of FURIN in peripheral blood (PB) and synovial fluid (SF) leucocytes from patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

FURIN mRNA expression in PB and SF cells was determined by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and FURIN plasma levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Associations between FURIN levels and demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients were determined.

FURIN levels were significantly elevated in PB and SF mononuclear cells, T cells, and monocytes from RA patients compared to healthy controls. High FURIN levels were significantly associated with the prevailing prednisolone treatment, higher prednisolone doses, and increased C-reactive protein levels and Health Assessment Questionnaire values.

FURIN is significantly upregulated in RA PB and SF leucocytes, suggesting that it may have a role in the pathogenesis of RA. In addition, our results suggest that elevated FURIN expression is associated with the indicators of more severe RA.