Cells of the synovium in rheumatoid arthritis. Synovial fibroblasts.
For some time synovial fibroblasts have been regarded simply as innocent synovial cells, mainly responsible for synovial homeostasis. During the past decade, however, a body of evidence has accumulated illustrating that rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts (RASFs) are active drivers of joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis. Details regarding the intracellular signalling cascades that result in long-term activation and synthesis of proinflammatory molecules and matrix-degrading enzymes by RASFs have been analyzed. Molecular, cellular and animal studies have identified various interactions with other synovial and inflammatory cells. This expanded knowledge of the distinct role played by RASFs in the pathophysiology of rheumatoid arthritis has moved these fascinating cells to the fore, and work to identify targeted therapies to inhibit their joint destructive potential is underway.
Müller-Ladner
Ulf
U
Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Kerckhoff-Clinic Bad Nauheim, Benekestrasse, D-61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany. u.mueller-ladner@kerckhoff-klinik.de
Ospelt
Caroline
C
Gay
Steffen
S
Distler
Oliver
O
Pap
Thomas
T
D000818:Animals; D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000473:pathology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D005347:Fibroblasts / Q000473:pathology / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D018836:Inflammation Mediators / Q000502:physiology; D015398:Signal Transduction; D013583:Synovial Membrane / Q000473:pathology* / Q000503:physiopathology
D018836:Inflammation Mediators