Association study of TRAF1-C5 polymorphism with susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis in Tunisian population

摘要

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) suggests the involvement of both environmental and genetic factors. In addition to HLA, the first identified genetic risk factor [1], a new genetic locus associated with RA was reported [2]. This region encompasses the TNF-receptor-associated factor 1 gene (TRAF1) as well as the complement component factor 5 (C5) gene. From a functional perspective, TRAF1 is likely to be a negative regulator of TNF-receptor signaling [3] and C5 is a central component of complement pathway [4]. Both molecules are potent immune regulators and perpetuators of inflammation.