title: Role of interleukin-7 in degenerative and inflammatory joint diseases.
abstract: IL-7 is known foremost for its immunostimulatory capacities, including potent T cell-dependent catabolic effects on bone. In joint diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, IL-7, via immune activation, can induce joint destruction. Now it has been demonstrated that increased IL-7 levels are produced by human articular chondrocytes of older individuals and osteoarthritis patients. IL-7 stimulates production of proteases by IL-7 receptor-expressing chondrocytes and enhances cartilage matrix degradation. This indicates that IL-7, indirectly via immune activation, but also by a direct action on cartilage, contributes to joint destruction in rheumatic diseases.
authors.forename: Joel A G
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: van Roon
authors.forename: Floris P J G
authors.initials: FP
authors.lastname: Lafeber
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001168:Arthritis / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D015851:Interleukin-7 / Q000378:metabolism*
chemical_list: C508605:IL7 protein, human; D015851:Interleukin-7