Adipokines in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Emerging Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Endocrinology
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease with systemic effects.
• Adipose tissue, once considered inert, is now recognized as a key player in RA pathophysiology.
• Adipokines secreted by adipose tissue significantly influence immune responses and inflammation in RA.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the multifaceted roles of adipokines in RA pathogenesis, including inflammation and joint destruction.
• To explore the emerging roles of adipomyokines, such as irisin and myostatin, in RA.
• To discuss the therapeutic potential of targeting adipokines and adipomyokines for RA treatment.

Main Methods:

• Literature review synthesizing current research on adipokines, adipomyokines, and RA.
• Analysis of the interplay between adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, and immune cells in RA.
• Examination of the impact of sarcopenic obesity on RA severity and inflammatory processes.

Main Results:

• Adipokines significantly modulate immune responses, inflammation, and metabolic pathways in RA, often exacerbating the disease.
• Sarcopenic obesity exacerbates the inflammatory milieu and metabolic disturbances associated with RA.
• Irisin and myostatin emerge as critical adipomyokines with potential roles in RA pathogenesis and as therapeutic targets.

Conclusions:

• Adipokines and adipomyokines represent promising targets for novel RA therapeutic strategies.
• Understanding the crosstalk between adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, and immune system is crucial for RA management.
• Further research into adipomyokines like irisin and myostatin is warranted to fully elucidate their therapeutic implications in RA.