Citrullination, a possible functional link between susceptibility genes and rheumatoid arthritis.
Antibodies directed to citrullinated proteins (anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide) are highly specific for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Recent data suggest that the antibodies may be involved in the disease process of RA and that several RA-associated genetic factors might be functionally linked to RA via modulation of the production of anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies or citrullinated antigens.
Vossenaar
Erik R
ER
Department of Biochemistry, University of Nijmegen, The Netherlands. e.vossenaar@ncmls.kun.nl
Zendman
Albert JW
AJ
Van Venrooij
Walther J
WJ