Serum 14-3-3η is a Marker that Complements Current Biomarkers for the Diagnosis of RA: Evidence from a Meta-analysis

Epigenome association study for DNA methylation biomarkers in buccal and monocyte cells for female rheumatoid arthritis

Genetics (i.e., mutations) has been assumed to be the major factor in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) etiology, but accounts for a minority of the variance in disease risk for RA. In contrast to genetics, the environment can have dramatic impacts on epigenetics that associate with disease etiology. The current study used buccal cells and purified blood monocytes from two different clinical cohorts involving Caucasian or African American female populations with or without arthritis. The differential DNA methylation regions (DMRs) between the control and RA populations were identified with an epigenome-wide association study. The DMRs (i.e., epimutations) identified in the buccal cells and monocytes were found to be distinct. The DMR associated genes were identified and many have previously been shown to be associated with arthritis. Observations demonstrate DNA methylation epimutation RA biomarkers are cell type specific and similar findings were observed with the two racial background populations. Rheumatoid arthritis susceptibility epigenetic diagnosis appears feasible and may improve the clinical management of RA and allowpreventative medicine considerations.

The Role of 14-3-3 η as a Biomarker in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic multisystem inflammatory disorder with significant morbidity and mortality. Making an early diagnosis and providing appropriate treatment decisions based on clinical and other parameter results in good disease control. Biomarkers, such as C reactive protein (CRP), anti-cyclic citrullinated peptides (anti-CCP), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), have been traditionally used. Recently novel biomarkers are described. This article reviews the evidence behind a novel biomarker 14-3-3 η that has been found to provide additional diagnostic and prognostic information as well as predicting response to treatment. A systematic literature review is presented showing the evidence behind this molecule.