Authors
Weixin Zhang, Francisco Lopez, Mei Wan, Junying Zheng, Russell Wesson, Zhaoli Sun, Xu Cao
Lab
Journal
International Journal of Surgery
Abstract
Emerging evidence identifies immune dysregulation, fibroblast-like synoviocyte (FLS) activation, and pathological neurovascular remodeling as key drivers of RA pathogenesis[9–11]. Transforming Growth Factor Beta (TGF-β) signaling plays a complex, context-dependent role, functioning as both an immunoregulatory and pathogenic factor. TGF-β1 is upregulated in the synovium of RA patients – including in synovial lining cells, macrophages, and endothelial cells – and is elevated in synovial fluid compared to osteoarthritis and healthy controls[12–14]. In RA, TGF-β promotes Th17 cell differentiation in the presence of IL-6, contributes to synovial fibrosis and hyperplasia, and enhances pathological angiogenesis[15–17]. In conjunction with inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, TGF-β upregulates receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) in FLSs, promoting osteoclastogenesis and bone erosion[18,19]. The imbalance between pro-inflammatory Th17 cells and regulatory T cells (Tregs), alongside elevated TNF-α and IL-17A, further perpetuates chronic inflammation and joint destruction[8,20]. Additionally, aberrant angiogenesis and sensory nerve innervation within the synovial microenvironment exacerbate joint pain. Targeting the TGF-β pathway and its downstream mediators (e.g., SMADs) offers therapeutic potential but requires selective modulation to preserve essential immunoregulatory functions, such as Treg maintenance.
Keywords/Topics
pathological neurovascular remodeling; joint pain; surgery; immune dysregulation; fibroblast-like synoviocyte fls activation; key drivers; transforming growth factor beta; tgf-β; tgf-β1; ra patients
Source :
CONFERENCES & MEETINGS 2026 
