Macrophages in rheumatoid arthritis.
Raimund W. KinneExperimental Rheumatology Unit, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany. [email protected]Rolf BräuerFriedrich Schiller University, Jena, GermanyBruno StuhlmüllerHumboldt University of Berlin, Berlin, GermanyErnesta Palombo‐KinneFriedrich Schiller University, Jena, GermanyGerd-R. BurmesterHumboldt University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
2000en
ABI
Abstract
The abundance and activation of macrophages in the inflamed synovial membrane/pannus significantly correlates with the severity of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Although unlikely to be the 'initiators' of RA (if not as antigen-presenting cells in early disease), macrophages possess widespread pro-inflammatory, destructive, and remodeling capabilities that can critically contribute to acute and chronic disease. Also, activation of the monocytic lineage is not locally restricted, but extends to systemic parts of the mononuclear phagocyte system. Thus, selective counteraction of macrophage activation remains an efficacious approach to diminish local and systemic inflammation, as well as to prevent irreversible joint damage.
Identifiers
- DOI
- 10.1186/ar86
Citations and references
Cited by 20 references