Predicting Response to TNF Blockers Among Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients

TNF blockers (e.g., Enbrel, Remicade, and Humira) target and block inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis. In patients who respond to the drugs, there can be a significant reduction in:

• chronic pain
• morning stiffness
• swollen joints

There is the potential for decreased joint damage and increased joint function. But some patients do not respond well to the drugs, and currently, there is no way to tell who will and who won't. Because TNF blockers are expensive biologic drugs, and since they are linked to certain serious side effects, it would be helpful to know who is likely to be helped by using them.

According to a report presented at the annual scientific meeting of the American College of Rheumatology, researchers have identified a gene that showed a decrease in expression of two particular gene components, called exons, in patients who did not respond to anti-TNF medications compared to those who did. In the future, gene expression patterns in rheumatoid arthritis patients could serve as biomarkers for predicting response to TNF blockers.

More Related Resources:

• Test Your Knowledge - TNF Blockers
• Are Some Patients Unsuitable for Biologics?
• Do Biologics Prevent Joint Damage and Deformity?
• TNF Blockers - How Are They Similar and Different?
• All You Need to Know About TNF Blockers

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