New research identifies new target for rheumatoid arthritis treatment
New research being carried out at the University of the West of Scotland in Paisley in close collaboration with the Universities of Glasgow and Strathclyde, has identified a potentially important molecule in joint tissue that may hold the key to establishing much needed new therapies for rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
The new molecule, called PAR-2, is being studied in a research project funded by a three-year Arthritis Research Campaign grant of more than £170,000.
“Despite the success of exciting new treatments for RA such anti-TNF therapy, there is still a pressing need for alternative therapies to treat the significant population of patients who do not respond adequately,” explained Professor John Lockhart, Professor of Physiology at the University of the West of Scotland.
“Understanding the biochemical mechanisms underlying the development of autoimmunity may provide new therapeutic avenues for RA management.”
Preliminary results suggest that the molecule has a role in the development of RA but the underlying mechanisms involved are unclear. The research team, which includes Professor William Ferrell, Dr Mohammed Nickdel and Professor Iain McInnes at the University of Glasgow, and Professor Robin Plevin at the University of Strathclyde, have established that PAR-2 is produced in increased quantities in RA patients with active disease. PAR-2 acts on immune system T-cells involved in inflammation, the cells that produce the destructive chemicals causing tissue degeneration in the arthritic joint. In animal models, blocking PAR-2 activation inhibited acute arthritis and halted the production of degenerative chemicals.
Professor Lockhart hypothesises that PAR-2 may be pivotal in the development and progression of RA. Further research will use human tissue samples to find out what controls PAR-2 production, how it functions, and how it correlates with inflammation markers.
If PAR-2 operates by changing the body’s immune system, it may be possible to modify its actions with the development of novel therapeutics and provide long-term benefits for RA patients.
Rheumatoid arthritis affects around 380,000 people in the UK and is an auto-immune disease caused by the body's immune system attacking itself. It leads to severe joint pain, stiffness and fatigue. Although newer, current treatments can be very effective, they are very expensive and don't work in everyone.
