IL-6 is a critical cytokine for inflammatory bone loss in rheumatoid arthritis

摘要

Among the cytokines implicated in inflammatory bone loss, most attention has focused on TNF-alpha but the acquisition of neutralizing antibodies that target the IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) has focused new interest on the potential roles of IL-6.Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by persistent synovitis and joint destruction. Within 5 years, up to 50% of patients will have joint damage, which contributes to irreversible functional disability [1]. RA is also associated with systemic osteoporosis and increased bone fragility. The increased fracture risk is more prominent at the hip and spine and is associated with RA severity, disease duration and glucocorticoid use [2].