Association of CTLA4 Gene Polymorphisms with Rheumatoid Arthritis Susceptibility

Abstract

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease, presenting with joint inflammation and its progressive destruction, affecting a range of about 0.24-1% of the population in different parts of the world. It is one of the major disabling conditions among middle-aged and older women. In this study, the association between five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the CTLA4 gene and RA was investigated. Materials and Methods: The study group included 200 patients with RA and 184 healthy individuals from the Iranian population as a control group. Results: After PCR and genotyping, 4 of the 5 SNPs studied showed a significant association with RA. Also, an association between specific haplotypes with RA was determined. Conclusion: Based on the results, it can be said that some SNPs of the CTLA4 gene may serve as genetic markers for predicting RA susceptibility or progression and using personalized treatment, lead to improved outcomes among patients with RA.

Keywords: CTLA4; immunity; rheumatoid arthritis; rheumatoid factor; single nucleotide polymorphism.