Beverly Hills, CA (PRWEB) January 22, 2015 -- The findings from a promising drug study for treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis in mice is set for human trials this year. Published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), the researchers, lead by Teresa Hemmerle of the federal technology institute ETH Zurich in Switzerland, discovered a compound that cleared the affected mice of their symptoms.
Using one of the body’s own immune cells, interleukin 4 (IL-4), and fusing it with an antibody found in certain disease specific inflamed tissue and tumors, the researchers found that the combination of the two elements used together completely eradicated the arthritis induced swelling and inflammation in the toes and paws of the affected mice within days.
“The implications for human uses of this study are very exciting,” said Dr. Susan A. Baker, a rheumatologist in Beverly Hills. “The treatment for Rheumatoid arthritis up to this point has mainly focused on managing pain and slowing long term joint damage and deterioration for as long as possible. The potential for a drug with curative effects would be a watershed moment in the treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis.”
Rheumatoid Arthritis, an autoimmune disorder that causes painful swelling and inflammation in the joints and can lead to long term joint damage and deterioration currently does not have a cure. While the trajectory between human trials and the availability of a cure can be long and complicated, the researchers are very hopeful that their findings will lead to a viable treatment option for humans down the line.
“Any research or new information that can enhance our treatment options for patients is always a welcome addition,” added Dr. Baker.
The researchers found that when used separately, the components worked to slow the progression of the RA symptoms in the mice, but it was the combination of the two that produced the breakthrough results.
Board certified in both internal medicine and rheumatology, Dr. Baker has been practicing medicine in Beverly Hills since 2003. In addition to her primary practice, she holds teaching position at Cedars Sinai Hospital. and is a clinical instructor of medicine for UCLA, David Geffen School of Medicine. Dr. Baker has been recieved numerous awards including the “Patient’s Choice Award” and the “Most Compassionate Doctor” award.
To contact Susan A. Baker MD, Rheumatology & Internal Medicine please visit http://susanbakermd.com/, or call (310) 274–7770.
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