Mining the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis, the leading role of the environment

The environment plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of various diseases, including rheumatic musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs). Chronic exposure to air pollution has been associated with a number of detrimental effects on the immune system, including direct activation of autoimmunity and autoantibodies production. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a paradigmatic example of the link between environmental stimuli and development of autoimmunity. Recent evidence has confirmed such association and provided further indication of the strict relationship between the lungs and the synovial tissue. Hard rock mining and chronic exposure to airborne fine particulate matter have been associated with higher risk of developing RA. In addition, new evidence showed a peculiar association between acute exposure to toxic inhalants and risk of RA flare. In conclusion, the environment is the straw that breaks the camel's back, unfortunately the straws are rapidly accumulating, and their burden is projected to increase accordingly.

Automated summary

The environment plays a crucial role in the development of various diseases, including rheumatic musculoskeletal diseases. Chronic exposure to air pollution has detrimental effects on the immune system, including direct activation of autoimmunity and production of autoantibodies. Rheumatoid arthritis is an example of how environmental stimuli can trigger autoimmunity. Evidence has shown that hard rock mining and chronic exposure to fine particulate matter in the air are associated with an increased risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.