A study published today in the journal “Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases” shows that the antibodies produced against cartilage protein collagen II act as a new prognostic and therapeutic tool for patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Collagen II is an important cartilage protein formed in the joints. The patients with collagen antibodies showed increased inflammation signs, which was higher during the first six months. In general, the previous studies used antibodies against citrullinated peptides which showed inverse relation with inflammation. Hence, this study has suggested combined analysis of antibodies against citrullinated peptides and collagen. This will be the new tool that will help predict the new disease course.
Reference Link: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2017-03-tool-prognosis-choice-therapy-rheumatoid.html