New 'suicide' molecule halts rheumatoid arthritis

A researcher from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine has invented a novel way to halt and even reverse rheumatoid arthritis. He developed an imitation of a suicide molecule that floats undetected into overactive immune cells responsible for the disease.

Whimsically referred to as Casper the Ghost, the stealthy molecule causes the immune cells to self-destruct.

The approach, tested on mice, doesn't carry the health risks of current treatments.

"This new therapy stopped the disease cold in 75 percent of the mice," reported Harris Perlman, the lead author and an associate professor of medicine at Feinberg. "The best part was we didn't see any toxicity. This has a lot of potential for creating an entirely new treatment for rheumatoid arthritis."

The study will be published in the February issue of Arthritis & Rheumatism.

Healthy immune cells are supposed to die after they attack an invading virus or bacteria. But in rheumatoid arthritis, the immune cells called macrophages live and go rogue. They proliferate in the blood, build up in the joints and invade cartilage and bone. Currently, there is no effective, nontoxic way to stop them.

Perlman discovered that immune cells in rheumatoid arthritis are low in a critical molecule called Bim, whose job is to order the cells to self-destruct. To correct that shortage, Perlman developed an imitation of the molecule, called BH3 mimetic. When Harris injected his drug into mice with rheumatoid arthritis, it floated ghostlike into their macrophages and bam!, the misbehaving immune cells self destructed.

In his research, Harris showed the molecule could prevent the development of rheumatoid arthritis as well as trigger a remission of existing disease. After the drug was injected in animals with the disease, joint swelling was reduced and bone destruction decreased.

Current treatments for rheumatoid arthritis include low-level chemotherapy and steroids. These are not always effective, however, and they are frequently accompanied by side effects. A newer class of therapy, which is sometimes used in combination with chemotherapy and steroids, is biologic response modifiers. These are antibodies or other proteins that reduce the inflammation produced by the hyperactive immune cells. These biologics don't work for everyone, though, and can be associated with side effects including the risk of infection.

Perlman said the next step is to develop nanotechnology for a more precise method of delivering the drug. His research was supported by the National Institute of Arthritis, Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease.

Blood test can predict rheumatoid arthritis before symptoms arise

Researchers from University Hospital in Umea, Sweden, have identified several cytokines, cytokine-related factors, and chemokines that increase significantly prior to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) disease onset. These findings confirm those of earlier studies which suggest that the risk of developing RA can be predicted and disease progression may be prevented. Complete findings of this study are published in the February issue of Arthritis & Rheumatism, a journal of the American College of Rheumatology.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by joint inflammation involving the synovial (lubricating fluid of the joints) tissue and eventually leading to destruction of cartilage and bone. The cause leading to disease development and progression is not completely understood, although various cells of the immune system and of synovial origin are suggested to be involved. Numerous cytokines are expressed and are functionally active in the synovial tissue once the disease has developed. Now a research team led by Solbritt Rantapää-Dahlqvist, M.D. has found that several of these cytokine levels spike as much as several years prior to the development of arthritic symptoms.

An early and accurate diagnosis of RA is crucial. According to the American College of Rheumatology, RA can be difficult to diagnose because it may begin with only subtle symptoms, such as achy joints or early morning stiffness. Many diseases including lupus, osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia, especially early on, mimic the symptoms of RA making diagnosis more difficult. Studies have shown that people who receive early treatment for RA feel better sooner and more often, are more likely to lead an active life, and are less likely to experience the type of joint damage that leads to joint replacement.

To determine whether cytokines, cytokine-related factors, and chemokines are up-regulated prior to the development of RA, and which ones are involved, the team conducted a nested case–control study within the Medical Biobank of Northern Sweden. Blood samples were analyzed from 86 individuals before the appearance of symptoms of RA (pre-patients), from 69 of the pre-patients after the onset of RA, and from 256 matched control subjects (1:3 ratio). A consecutive time-dependent involvement of the immune system in disease development and progression was evaluated. The plasma levels of 30 cytokines, related factors, and chemokines were measured using a multiplex system. Individuals in whom RA subsequently developed were discriminated from control subjects mainly by the presence of Th1 cell-, Th2 cell-, and Treg cell–related cytokines, while chemokines, stromal cell–derived cytokines, and angiogenic-related markers separated patients after the development of RA from individuals before the onset of RA.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosis: A Review Of The Facts

by Sandra Fierling

Rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis can be a complicated procedure. This is because there are various procedures and none of them are 100%. For example there is a Rheumatoid Arthritis factor where antibodies can be found in the joint fluid and about 80% of people suffering from this disease have the RA factor. There are other tests too - an ESR or sed rate test which measures how quickly red blood cells descend to the bottom of a glass tube which contains the blood in question. Unfortunately this ESR test isn't 100% certain.

However, if you do go to the doctor and have tests and you are also having rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, then it's probably a fact that you have the disease. Don't forget that 'normal' arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are different from each other. Rheumatoid arthritis affects more than your joints as it is an auto immune disease. It's important to get a rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis as soon as possible.Unfortunately at this moment in time there is no cure for this disase, however there are more and more options to help alleviate the condition. Act quickly because the earlier you begin treatment, the better you can get help to manage the condition, treat the pain, stiff joints and also fatigue.

RA Symptoms include: Swelling or inflammation of joints - it can start with small joints like the fingers and go onto shoulders, etc. Stiffness, especially in the morning when you get out of bed Joints can become painful Due to the above, it is no wonder that sleeplessness is also a symptom Tiredness and fatigue can also be a factor

Treatments are many and varied - allopathic and alternative. The best path to take would be to visit your doctor and discuss treatment options with him. After all, he knows you well and he can monitor your progress. If the medication doesn't work out or causes side effects, he can help you with the choice of another one. You can also do research on the internet, in book stores, health stores, etc. so you can become informed about this chronic disease.

It is really important to go and see your doctor if you think you have this disease and then you can get a rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis. Then you can do your own research, consult your doctor, etc. so you are informed of all the ways you can help yourself.

About the Author
Now you can discover why a rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis is important if you think you have arthritis. For more resources visit http://arthritisreviews.com

The Truth Behind Rheumatoid Arthritis

by Dr. Rose Windale

There are over 100 rheumatoid and joint related diseases all within the coverage of the term "arthritis". When one mentions arthritis, one can imagine that inherent, possibly teeth-grinding gnawing sensation in the joints. The word "arthritis" literally means inflammation of the joints and with it being a common by-word, most may have the impression that it is negligible. There are millions of arthritis sufferers in the United States alone and they usually have a wide array of this disease to contend with. There are more women who suffer from arthritis than men, but even children are not spared as there is such thing called as juvenile arthritis.

It can manifest in different joint locations in the body, has different causes and entails varied treatment measures. Arthritis is undoubtedly one of the most prevalent diseases that can cause a major discomfort and as such, it must be addressed accordingly. One of the most common types of arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis to this point is still veiled with misunderstanding and uncertainty. Experts, however suspect several culprits which instigate rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is besically regarded as an autoimmune disease. By autoimmune disease, it means that the body's immune system turns against itself. Antibodies within the body called white blood cells are supposedly the guardians of the whole system serving to fight and ward off foreign elements.

But in the case of an autoimmune disorder, the antibodies attack the body's own tissues. Researches obtained findings that the occurrence of rheumatoid arthritis has to do with the amount of rheumatoid elements in the blood. Rheumatoids in the blood are responsible in directing the white blood cells, and increased levels of rheumatoids can cause a malfunction in the immune system. It has been therefore concluded that rheumatoid arthritis arises from heightened levels of rheumatoid factors in the blood. Further studies stated that rheumatoid arthritis may be viral in nature as well. This condition is said to be instigated by an infection in the immune system although this may need further evidence.

A person's genetic make up may also have an association with rheumatoid arthritis as a genetic defect can also be its contributing factor. As with most kinds of arthritis, women are more predisposed to suffer from the disease than men. Ongoing researches cited that there may be a link between female hormonal processes and the cause of rheumatoid arthritis. Although pregnant women are less likely to be afflicted with rheumatoid arthritis due to decreased rheumatoid amounts in the blood, the condition can possibly recur after giving birth. Environmental factors are also considered as a contributing factor to the disease. Extreme cold weather can possibly cause the manifestation of rheumatoid arthritis.

With all these possible attributing elements to the disease, the classic symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis still remain and they are stiffness, tenderness and inflammation of the joints which limit flexibility and movement. In its chronic stages, rheumatoid arthritis can affect the surrounding organs as well therefore proper preventive measures such as regular, proper exercise and a healthy diet augmented by vitamin and mineral sufficient health supplements should be implemented to intervene with the onset of rheumatoid arthritis.

About the Author
The author of this article, Rose Windale, is a Health and Wellness Coach who has been successful with several natural health programs for many years. Rose recently published a step-by-step guide on how to lose weight the EASY way and become totally healthy and happy. More info on her life-changing eating habits plan HERE

Rheumatoid Arthritis Cure and Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment

by Dr. Mital John

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, inflammatory type of arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is also classified as an autoimmune disease because it can affect multiple other organs of the body; rheumatoid arthritis is referred to as a systemic illness and is sometimes called rheumatoid disease.

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis will typically not have pain or swelling in the finger joint closest to the fingertip the distal interphalangeal joint. The other joints in the hand are often affected. The affected joints are often tender to the touch. Depending on how long the person has been having symptoms, and the severity of the rheumatoid arthritis, there may also be some deformity in the fingers, hands, wrists, and other joints.

Rheumatoid nodules may develop and be felt as firm lumps beneath the skin. These occur most commonly at points of pressure under the elbow and on the fingers. Usually rheumatoid nodules do not cause pain but they can become infected or put pressure on a nerve in which case they would need to be treated. Rheumatoid arthritis is a common rheumatic disease, affecting approximately 1.3 million people in the United States, according to current census data. The disease is three times more common in women as in men.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms: - Generally, if a joint on the right side of your body is affected; the same joint on the left side is also affected. Feeling tired and run-down with swollen lymph glands, a low fever, little or no appetite, and weight loss Appearance of small bumps under the skin near the affected joints

* Joint pain, joint swelling, joint stiffness, and warmth around the affected joint * Morning stiffness which lasts one or more hours * Small bumps called nodules may appear around effected joints. * Fatigue and noticeable loss of energy * Low grade fevers and sometimes flu-like symptoms * Loss of appetite, weight loss, and anemia associated with chronic diseases, depression * Dry eyes and dry mouth associated with a secondary condition Jorgen's syndrome * Joint deformity and instability from damage to cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and bone * Stiffness in the joints. You will usually see a reduction in the range of motion of effected joints. * Limited range of motion in affected joints * Flares and remission of disease activity is characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis

How to Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis: -

Diet: One of the simplest treatments, and yet a treatment that has been found to be effective for many people, is consuming an anti-inflammatory diet. Primarily, this consists of consuming omega-3 fatty acid containing foods, including small cold water fish, fruits, and vegetables. See the section on diet and nutrition for more details.

Exercise and rest: Rest is an important part of treating rheumatoid arthritis. One of the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can be fatigue as well as a sense of generalized malaise. It is important to get adequate rest so that your body does not get run down; this is true for everyone, but particularly true for people with rheumatoid arthritis.

Early diagnosis: The sooner that rheumatoid arthritis is treated, the better. If you think you might have rheumatoid arthritis, or other type of arthritis, don't delay in getting to your doctor. Prolonging treatment only makes it more difficult to treat later.

Physical therapy: It is important to be enrolled in a well-structured physical therapy program. In addition, physicians and physical therapists can fit you for gait aids (e.g. cane) when necessary.

Weight loss: As with other forms of arthritis, if you are overweight then losing weight can make a large impact on decreasing pain and stiffness in your joints by taking some of the pressure off of them.

About the Author
For more information's visit Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment and Arthritis Treatment. Also visit Rheumatoid Arthritis Cure

CCII capsules offer safe and effective treatment for rheumatoid arthritis

Chicken collagen can provide relief from rheumatoid arthritis (RA) symptoms. A randomised, controlled trial, published in BioMed Central's open access journal Arthritis Research & Therapy, has found that Chicken type II collagen (CCII), a protein extracted from the cartilage of chicken breast, is a safe and effective treatment for RA.

Wei Wei, from Anhui Medical University, China, worked with a team of researchers to test the novel treatment by comparing it to the established antirheumatic drug methotrextate, in 503 RA patients. Patients who received a 12-week course of CCII capsules showed significantly improved joint function, with fewer and milder adverse effects than those taking methotrexate. According to Wei, "We've shown that CCII is a promising alternative therapeutic strategy that may be used as a nutritional supplement against rheumatoid arthritis".

RA is an autoimmune disease caused by the body mounting a response against its own cartilage - the rubbery tissue, composed mainly of collagen, which cushions and lubricates joints. By dosing patients with collagen in the form of CCII capsules, the researchers believe that 'oral tolerance' can be developed. Wei said "Oral tolerance is a reduction in autoimmune activity caused by repeated dietary exposure to the offending substance. Treatment of autoimmune diseases by induction of oral tolerance is attractive because of the few side effects and easy clinical implementation of this approach. Indeed, our work confirms that treatment with oral CCII leads to improvement in arthritis with no significant side effects".

Be Alert to the Signs of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis

by Kim Archer

Most folks almost certainly don't know that there are more than one hundred distinct varieties of arthritis. You also may not know that arthritis does not just affect adults; unfortunately children can also contract this disease. Though rare, children can contract a form of the disorder known as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.

Arthritis in children has many of the same symptoms as those experienced by adults. Yet there are some notable differences that any parent must know more about.
Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis normally causes inflamed joints for a period of about a month and a half. This is actually a common form of the condition that manifests just about as frequently as does adult onset arthritis. Indeed, fully one quarter of the population will ultimately go through one kind of arthritis or another.

Because it is a very complex type of arthritis, it's very important to seek treatment; otherwise, it can actually become life-threatening. Children can experience a number of forms of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. These are categorized in relation to the joints that are impacted, along with the symptoms that the child is undergoing.

The most common symptoms are swollen joints along with pain and stiffness. Swelling of the joints or bones and crippling pain might also be experienced. This usually happens after intense physical activity. One might not be able to visually note pain and stiffness, but swelling will be very obvious. The swollen area is generally tender and reddened. Children might suffer a range of symptoms in the afflicted joint, from stiffness, to limited mobility, to no motion at all.

Children with rheumatoid arthritis frequently have fevers and rashes as symptoms. The fever associated with this disease is quite elevated, and it may simply go away on its own. If these symptoms continue, you can be certain it's not just a normal cold or flu bug. They won't simply hang around for a couple of days then disappear, but instead will return on a frequent basis. The associated rash is typically light pink and often appears then disappears on a random basis.

Eye inflammation frequently takes place in children who suffer from juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. The eyes could be swollen and red, particularly around the center. You're less likely to link this symptom to another illness since it's unique to JRA. Blindness might be the ultimate result for children who have this symptom, which is usually associated with pauciarticular JRA, which does not show any other early signs.

Children undergoing these symptoms need immediate medical attention. It is crucial to seek proper medical attention for any symptoms of juvenile arthritis. Your physician will be able to advise you of the best way to get arthritis pain relief for your child.

About the Author
Arthritis is a serious health condition that affects the joints, bones, and ligaments. There is more than one form of the disease, with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis being two of the most widespread. No matter which kind you have, it can be very painful. Visit Arthritis Relief to find out what you can do to effectively manage the condition.