The roles of B cells and their interactions with fibroblast-like synoviocytes in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis

Abstract

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic inflammatory disorder that may affect many tissues and organs but principally attacks synovial joints. The pathogenesis of RA is complex and encompasses many cell types, including T cells, B cells and fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs); each is believed to play a significant role in the process of RA. Interactions between T cells and B cells and between T cells and FLSs have been studied in depth. However, it has been showed that B cells also play a critical role in rheumatoid synovitis. Therefore, cell-cell contact between B cells and FLSs may be significant in the pathophysiology of RA. This review focuses on recent advances in the research of the interaction between B cells and FLSs. Considering this interaction may provide directions for innovations in RA therapy.