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Dimethyl Fumarate Suppresses Collagen-Induced Arthritis by Regulating Inflammatory Responses
Parisa Zafari1, Salman Ghaffari2, Nima Makvand Gholipour3
1Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
Journal of Biochemical and Molecular Toxicology
|October 31, 2025
Summary
Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) effectively reduced inflammation and joint damage in a rheumatoid arthritis (RA) rat model. This suggests DMF may be a potential new treatment for RA patients.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) is approved for autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.
- Its efficacy in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the therapeutic effects of DMF on a collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rat model of RA.
- To assess DMF's impact on joint inflammation, cartilage degradation, and relevant biomarkers.
Main Methods:
- A collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rat model was established in Lewis rats.
- Rats were treated with DMF, methotrexate (MTX), or vehicle control.
- Clinical evaluation included arthritis scores and paw swelling measurements.
- Radiographic and histological analyses of ankle joints were performed.
- Plasma levels of TNF-α and anti-CII were measured using ELISA.
Main Results:
- DMF significantly decreased arthritis scores and hind paw swelling.
- Histological analysis revealed reduced joint inflammation and cartilage degradation in DMF-treated rats.
- DMF treatment led to lower plasma levels of TNF-α and anti-CII compared to controls.
Conclusions:
- Dimethyl fumarate demonstrates significant therapeutic effects in a preclinical RA model.
- DMF's immunoregulatory activity likely contributes to its anti-arthritic properties.
- DMF warrants further study as a potential novel therapeutic agent for rheumatoid arthritis.
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