www.sciencedaily.com
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) starts years before joint pain surfaces, with a hidden immune system battle. A seven-year study of individuals with RA-linked antibodies revealed widespread inflammation, immune cell dysfunction, and epigenetic reprogramming in cells without prior threat exposure. These findings demonstrate the body anticipates autoimmune attacks, preparing for eventual joint damage long before the appearance of physical symptoms. Understanding these early changes could pave the way for preemptive interventions to prevent RA onset.
