How Spinal p38 MAP Kinase Affects Inflammation in Rats
Author Information
Author(s): David L. Boyle, Toni L. Jones, Deepa Hammaker, Camille I. Svensson, Sanna Rosengren, Salvatore Albani, Linda Sorkin, Gary S. Firestein
Primary Institution: University of California San Diego School of Medicine
Hypothesis
Does spinal cord p38 MAP kinase regulate peripheral inflammation in a model of rheumatoid arthritis?
Conclusion
Inhibition of p38 MAP kinase in the CNS reduces peripheral inflammation and joint destruction in arthritic rats.
Supporting Evidence
- Blocking p38 in the spinal cord significantly decreased paw swelling in arthritic rats.
- Local delivery of the p38 inhibitor was more effective than systemic treatment.
- Spinal p38 inhibition reduced levels of proinflammatory cytokines in the joints.
Takeaway
When scientists blocked a specific protein in the spinal cord of rats with arthritis, it helped reduce swelling and pain in their joints.
Methodology
Rats with adjuvant arthritis were treated with a p38 inhibitor delivered directly to the spinal cord, and various measures of inflammation and joint damage were assessed.
Limitations
The study used a rat model, which may not fully replicate human rheumatoid arthritis.
Participant Demographics
Lewis rats, 200–250 g.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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