Discoveries that transform the handling of arthritis
A group of researchers at Rovira i Virgili University (URV) and the Pere Virgili Health Research Institute (IISPV) has conducted an innovative study of rheumatoid arthritis, an inflammatory disease that affects approximately 1% of the global population, predominantly women. This research has focused on identifying proteins and molecules that could be fundamental to improving diagnosis and treatment, as well as reducing the risk of associated cardiovascular disease.
The Impact of the Arthritis Reumatoid in the General Health
Rheumatoid arthritis not only causes inflammation in the joints, but also has serious repercussions on other body systems, including cardiovascular. Chronic inflammation can increase the risk of stroke and cerebrovascular accidents, and understanding the molecules involved in this process is essential for the health of patients. The recent study seeks to identify markers that allow to measure inflammatory activity and anticipate possible complications.
Study methodology and results obtained
The research team has analyzed blood samples of 365 individuals: 219 patients with rheumatoid arthritis, 82 with metabolic disorders and 64 healthy people. The aim was to identify inflammation biomarkers, focusing on two categories: glycoproteins and microarns. Glycoproteins A, B and F were identified as potential indicators of the seriousness of the disease, showing high levels in patients with arthritis compared to Sanos controls.
Biomarkers: glycoprotein and their role
The results indicate that increasing glycoproteins A and B can serve as inflammation biomarkers. Dídac Llop, the main author of the study, emphasizes that measuring these levels could improve the monitoring of the disease and the prediction of future cardiovascular incidents in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Microarns: key regulators in the inflammatory process
In addition to glycoproteins, the study has highlighted the importance of microarns, which act as regulators of gene expression. Researchers have found that low levels of some microarns are correlated with an increase in glycoproteins A and B, suggesting that they could be objective for future treatments. This finding opens new avenues for the design of therapies that may be involved in inflammation associated with arthritis.
Gender differences in response to illness
The study also revealed that the relationship between glycoproteins and microarns is more pronounced in women than in men with rheumatoid arthritis. These differences could be influenced by hormonal factors, suggesting that women could need adapted therapeutic approach.
Future perspectives in the research of arthritis
With this research, the URV and IISPV team, which is part of the cyber of diabetes and associated metabolic diseases (CIBERDEM), opens a new chapter in the understanding of rheumatoid arthritis. Identification of specific biomarkers not only improves patients’ care, but can also lead to preventive strategies for cardiovascular complications. As research is advanced, the scientific community hopes to develop more effective and personalized treatments for this chronic disease.
