Rheumatoid arthritis: Evolving recognition of a common disease

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a highly prevalent autoimmune dis-ease and the most common form of autoimmune inflammatory arthritis. Studies of RA pathogenesis have contributed significantly to understanding the basis for complex immune-mediated disease, identified key steps in the development of autoimmune activation and joint damage in RA, and led to the development of targeted therapies that opened up the era biologic therapy. Current studies are linking differences in gene expression to abnormalities in cellular function that will help optimize therapy for individual patients and advance the goal of personalized medicine. Our evolving understanding and current important issues in RA are highlighted.(c) 2021 Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Automated summary

Rheumatoid arthritis is a prevalent autoimmune disease that has significantly contributed to the understanding and targeted therapies of immune-mediated diseases. Current research focuses on linking gene expression to cellular abnormalities for personalized medicine.