Biomarkers of neoangiogenesis in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Correlation between synovial tissue power Doppler signal and biomarkers of angiogenesis in Rheumatoid Arthritis
IRAS ID
188145
Contact name
Toby Garrood
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 8 months, 3 days
Research summary
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory condition affecting the joints which, if untreated, can result in progressive joint damage and disability. Power Doppler ultrasound (PDUS) of joints can determine whether a joint is inflamed with more accuracy than clinical examination and can help to inform treatment decisions in patients with early disease and established RA. However, US has a number of limitations: it is expensive and time-consuming, scanning multiple joints can take up to an hour which is impractical for day-to-day practice. Furthermore, expertise is not always available in rheumatology departments and scanning equipment and the examiner’s time is expensive.\n\nNew blood vessel formation is a key feature of inflammation of the lining of joints (the synovium) in RA and this correlates with PDUS. Various molecules have been identified in the blood of patients with RA that correlate with disease activity and with PDUS. The integrin αvβ3 (a protein) is increased in the synovium of patients with RA. We have recently shown in small pilot study that expression of αvβ3 assessed by a nuclear imaging technique utilising a novel tracer correlates closely with PDUS signal in the joints of RA patients.\n\nThe aim of this study is to further explore the correlation between PDUS and different soluble molecules associated with inflammation. In addition, we will assess correlation with αvβ3 expression by imaging this in the same patients. RA patients with a range of disease activities from remission to high disease activity will be included. If significant associations are seen this may lead the development of novel ways of measuring disease activity in patients with RA leading to improved, quicker and more cost-effective treatment decisions and better long-term outcomes.
REC name
London - Westminster Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/LO/0309
Date of REC Opinion
7 Apr 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion