Traditionally, osteoarthritis has been thought to be a non-inflammatory disease. However, we now know that inflammation plays a critical role in the development of OA in the joint and synovium. Synovitis, the inflammation of the synovial membrane is a classic characteristic of inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis but is now being seen in many people with OA. The presence of inflammation in the joint is thought to play a role in the different pain experiences of OA and disease progression. Research into the inflammatory pathways of OA may lead to the development of targeted therapies.
On this episode of Joint Action, we are joined by Dr Tom Appleton to discuss inflammation and its role in OA onset and progression.
Dr. Tom Appleton is Assistant Professor of Rheumatology and Clinician Scientist in the Department of Medicine, with cross-appointment to the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and the Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Program at Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University.
Dr. Appleton leads the Appleton lab which is focussed on understanding the role of synovium in the onset and progression of OA. His ongoing research is aimed at understanding the pathophysiology of synovial cell types involved in OA-associated synovitis and how these mechanisms contribute to OA symptoms and disease progression.
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