Three Genes for Rheumatoid Arthritis

There are more than 100 different types of arthritis with rheumatoid arthritis causing the most severe pain and often deformity. It’s believed to be an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the lining between the joints and causes an inflammatory response.

A twin study of 11 discordant pairs of twins (one with RA and the other without) has found the following three potential candidate genes that are overexpressed in twins with RA:

• Laeverin, an enzyme that works to degrade proteins
• 11B-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11B-HSD2), a steroid pathway enzyme linked to inflammation and bone erosion
• cysteine-rich, angiogenic inducer 61 (Cyr61), which plays a role in the formation of new blood vessels

And as always, knowing more about the genes involved will tell us more about the disease process, gene-targeted treatments, and maybe even a cure.

Forbes, July 12, 2006
Arthritis & Rheumatism, June 27, 2006

Thanks to Tara for asking about the missing references!

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