THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SMOKING AND AUTOANTIBODIES PRODUCTION IN RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Abstract

Oxidative stress plays a significant role in the pathophysiology of rheuma- toid arthritis (RA), contributing to joint inflammation and damage. In RA, an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defenses leads to the activation of pro-inflammatory pathways, further exacerbating tissue injury. The accumulation of ROS in synovial tissues induces the activation of inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines and enzymes like matrix metalloproteinases, promoting cartilage degradation and bone erosion. Additionally, oxidative stress is implicated in the mod- ulation of immune cell functions, influencing the persistence of autoim- mune responses. Understanding the mechanisms of oxidative stress in RA highlights potential therapeutic targets, including antioxidants, to mitigate disease progression and improve patient outcomes.