Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease affecting a large population worldwide. A strong inflammatory response at the articulation point causes significant joint and bone destruction in RA. It progresses with aging. The prevalence of RA is higher in women and older people. It mainly affects the joint, causing pain and inflammation. Conventional methods, primarily modifying rheumatic drugs and glucocorticoids, are the main therapies, while new methods are being developed and investigated. The fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) are involved in the pathogenesis of RA. By activating immune cells, they contribute to a joint environment characterized by inflammation and tissue death. Regenerative medicine is used to restore the normal functions of the cells or body. Specifically, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and MSC-derived exosomes have the potential to inhibit pathways that facilitate the erosion of tissues or cartilages, while also ameliorating the autoimmune response and promoting tissue regeneration. Owing to their ability to reduce inflammation, they can be used in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Therefore, the immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties of MSCs have made them promising candidates in preclinical and early clinical investigations for RA. In this review, the potential role of FLSs in the pathogenesis of RA and their inhibition by MSCs are discussed.
Shakoor et al. (Wed,) studied this question.