Genetics have been proved to have a profound effect on who would get arthritis as opposed to somebody else. A major genetic link was discovered back in the 1960's between the gene HLA-B27 and the spondyloarthropathies, a group of diseases affecting the spine and other joints. It was found that
- 90 percent of people with ankylosing spondylitis have the HLA-B27 gene.
- 7 percent of the general population have the HLA-B27 gene.
Scientists are working hard to find the other genes involved in the spondyloarthropathies and other rheumatic diseases. Later, an association was discovered between carriers of the HLA-DR genes and increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis. It is believed that HLA-DR contributes to autoimmune disease, conditions caused by the immune system fighting the body it is supposed to protect. Other genes are also suspected of being major factors in the evolution of rheumatoid arthritis.
Genetic research endeavors to identify which specific genes are involved in the inflammatory process, immune response, and breakdown of cartilage. Understanding the genetic connection may lead to a cure or better treatment options for the victims.
Studies have led to the discovery of a genetic mutation which causes osteoarthritis in some people. People who had early onset osteoarthritis were found to have a genetic mutation in type II collagen. The mutation caused premature breakdown of joint cartilage in them. Since this discovery other genetic mutations in other families have been found and even more mutations are thought to exist. It is suspected that 25 percent of people with osteoarthritis have a specific gene mutation directly responsible for their osteoarthritis. Studies have also pointed out that brothers are more susceptible to the inherited arthritis than sisters. Studies have established the magnitude of the genetic basis of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).
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JIA is a complex genetic condition and the genes that influence susceptibility are actively being sought. As JIA is a relatively rare disease, accounts of twin and family studies are quite uncommon and often based on small numbers. Recent data from the USA and Finland, however, suggest that the genetic contribution to JIA may be quite considerable. many patients with psoriatic arthritis may have a familial tendency toward the condition. However, a twin study found that arthritis was as common in dizygotic (fraternal) twins as in monzygotic (identical) twins so unknown environmental factors may also be important.
Scientists, by no means, say that arthritis attacks are based only on hereditary factors. Many other factors play contributing roles in causing arthritis in a patient.
Arthritisxl.com is your online health guide on arthritis, which strives to aware you about the main risk factors of arthritis.
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