Targeting pathways and integrated approaches to treat Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic symmetrical systemic disorder that not only affects joints but also other organs such as heart, lungs, kidney, and liver. Approximately there is 0.5% -1% of the total population affected by rheumatoid arthritis. RA pathogenesis still remains unclear due to which its appropriate treatment is a challenge. Further, multitudes of factors have been reported to affect its progression i.e. genetic factor, environmental factor, immune factor, and oxidative factor. Therapeutic approaches available for the treatment of RA include NSAIDs, DMARDs, enzymatic, hormonal, and gene therapies. But most of them provide the symptomatic relief without treating the core of the disease. This makes it obligatory to explore and reach the molecular targets for cure and long term relief from rheumatoid arthritis. Herein, we attempt to provide extensive overlay of the new targets for RA treatment such as signalling pathways, proteins, and receptors affecting the progression of the disease and its severity. Precise modification in these targets such as suppressing the notch signalling pathway, SIRT 3 protein, Sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor and stimulating the neuronal signals particularly efferent vagus nerve and SIRT 1 protein may offer long term relief and potentially diminish the chronicity. To target or alter the novel molecules and signaling pathway a specific delivery system is required such as liposome, nanoparticles and micelles and many more. In these review paper we have discuss about novel targets and delivery system for treating RA.