Nature Reviews Rheumatology
Posts from the editors of Nature Reviews Rheumatology, the top review journal in the field, covering the latest advances.
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Advances in cartilage imaging techniques
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 03 February 2026; doi:10.1038/s41584-026-01353-xNon-invasive imaging of articular cartilage has evolved markedly and can be used to monitor response to treatment and predict disease outcomes. This Review provides rheumatologists with a comprehensive update on current and emerging imaging and analysis techniques for the assessment of cartilage.dlvr.itMechanisms of fibrotic tissue remodelling: insights from systemic sclerosis
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 26 January 2026; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01349-zSystemic sclerosis (SSc) is a severe fibrotic disease that affects multiple organs, driven by vascular damage, inflammation and dysregulated repair. The authors of this Review explore the key mechanisms that promote fibrosis in SSc and highlight emerging therapeutic targets.dlvr.itRecommendations for the use of CLASI as an outcome measure in cutaneous lupus erythematosus clinical trials
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 26 January 2026; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01351-5In this Expert Recommendation, a working group integrating diverse perspectives presents a comprehensive overview of the clinical relevance and applicability of the Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus Disease Area and Severity Index (CLASI) and the rationale for its use as an outcome measure in clinical trials, addressing a long-standing roadblock in the development of new drugs for CLE.dlvr.it- ✨February Issue✨| Consensus definitions of complex-to-manage and treatment-refractory psoriatic arthritis: a GRAPPA initiative In this Consensus Statement, a GRAPPA task force presents consensus definitions for two distinct states, complex-to-manage PsA and treatment-refractory PsA. bit.ly/4qUjLcK
Consensus definitions of complex-to-manage and treatment-refractory psoriatic arthritis: a GRAPPA initiative - Nature Reviews Rheumatology
In this Consensus Statement, a Group for Research and Assessment of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis task force presents consensus definitions for two distinct states, complex-to-manage PsA and treat...bit.ly - ✨February Issue✨| Emerging and underrecognized viral triggers of autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic disease flares In this Review, the authors summarize the potential role of emerging viruses in autoimmune rheumatic diseases. bit.ly/4t5xK0v #Rheumsky #Medsky
Emerging and underrecognized viral triggers of autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic disease flares - Nature Reviews Rheumatology
In this Review, the authors summarize the potential role of emerging viruses in autoimmune rheumatic diseases (AIRDs). They describe the association between viruses and AIRD flare ups, the putative me...bit.ly - ✨February Issue✨| Osteoarthritis as a systemic disease The authors discuss emerging evidence that suggests a paradigm shift in viewing osteoarthritis as a systemic, bidirectional disease. bit.ly/3NVYoc9 #Rheumsky #Medsky
Osteoarthritis as a systemic disease - Nature Reviews Rheumatology
Emerging evidence suggests a paradigm shift in viewing osteoarthritis (OA) as a systemic, bidirectional disease. This Review examines the current data supporting this concept, outlines key challenges ...bit.ly - ✨February Issue✨| PD-1, BTLA and TIGIT as therapeutic targets for rheumatic disease This Review discusses the immune-checkpoint receptors PD-1, BTLA and TIGIT and the evidence for therapeutically targeting these receptors for the treatment of rheumatic diseases bit.ly/3Z8XcVn #Rheumsky #Medsky
PD-1, BTLA and TIGIT as therapeutic targets for rheumatic disease - Nature Reviews Rheumatology
Immune-checkpoint agonists are a promising therapeutic approach for autoimmune disease. This Review discusses the immune-checkpoint receptors PD-1, BTLA and TIGIT as well as the preclinical and clinic...bit.ly - The February issue also features our Key Advances in Rheumatology collection (bit.ly/3ZaPaeC), which offers a unique series of specially commissioned ‘Year in Review’ articles that highlight the key discoveries made in 2025. This collection also inspired the cover for this issue!
Key Advances in Rheumatology
The Key Advances in Rheumatology collection offers expert insight into the most important discoveries made each year, and is an essential resource for ...bit.ly - ✨February Issue✨| Featuring articles on: - PD-1, BTLA4 and TIGIT as therapeutic targets - Osteoarthritis as a systemic disease - Viral infections and autoimmune flares - Consensus definitions of complex-to-manage and treatment-refractory PsA: a GRAPPA initiative (🔓) bit.ly/45DeUEd #Rheumsky
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Mechanisms of fibrotic tissue remodelling: insights from systemic sclerosis
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 26 January 2026; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01349-zSystemic sclerosis (SSc) is a severe fibrotic disease that affects multiple organs, driven by vascular damage, inflammation and dysregulated repair. The authors of this Review explore the key mechanisms that promote fibrosis in SSc and highlight emerging therapeutic targets.dlvr.itRecommendations for the use of CLASI as an outcome measure in cutaneous lupus erythematosus clinical trials
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 26 January 2026; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01351-5In this Expert Recommendation, a working group integrating diverse perspectives presents a comprehensive overview of the clinical relevance and applicability of the Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus Disease Area and Severity Index (CLASI) and the rationale for its use as an outcome measure in clinical trials, addressing a long-standing roadblock in the development of new drugs for CLE.dlvr.itInflammation and pain as interconnected targets in axial spondyloarthritis
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 21 January 2026; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01348-0Although current treatments for axial spondyloarthritis can reduce inflammation, many patients continue to experience pain. This Review examines the complex interplay between pain and inflammation in axial spondyloarthritis and argues that both should be addressed as interconnected therapeutic targets to achieve meaningful pain relief.dlvr.itInflammation and pain as interconnected targets in axial spondyloarthritis
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 21 January 2026; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01348-0Although current treatments for axial spondyloarthritis can reduce inflammation, many patients continue to experience pain. This Review examines the complex interplay between pain and inflammation in axial spondyloarthritis and argues that both should be addressed as interconnected therapeutic targets to achieve meaningful pain relief.dlvr.itCOPA syndrome spans multiple organs but is defined by STING in the lung
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 07 January 2026; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01350-6A large European cohort clarifies COPA syndrome as a multi-organ interferonopathy defined by STING-driven interstitial lung disease (ILD). These findings refine diagnosis and treatment and establish COPA syndrome as a model for systemic autoimmune rheumatic disease-associated ILD.dlvr.itEngineered sialylated IgG1 Fc as a dose-sparing alternative to IVIG
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 05 January 2026; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01347-1Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is a cornerstone of autoimmune disease therapy, but its use is constrained by high costs and limited supply. A sialylated IgG1 Fc variant with enhanced affinity for the inhibitory Fcγ receptor FcγRIIB could offer an effective dose-sparing alternative to IVIG, potentially transforming treatments for autoimmune diseases.dlvr.itCOPA syndrome spans multiple organs but is defined by STING in the lung
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 07 January 2026; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01350-6A large European cohort clarifies COPA syndrome as a multi-organ interferonopathy defined by STING-driven interstitial lung disease (ILD). These findings refine diagnosis and treatment and establish COPA syndrome as a model for systemic autoimmune rheumatic disease-associated ILD.bit.lyEngineered sialylated IgG1 Fc as a dose-sparing alternative to IVIG
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 05 January 2026; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01347-1Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is a cornerstone of autoimmune disease therapy, but its use is constrained by high costs and limited supply. A sialylated IgG1 Fc variant with enhanced affinity for the inhibitory Fcγ receptor FcγRIIB could offer an effective dose-sparing alternative to IVIG, potentially transforming treatments for autoimmune diseases.bit.lyProgress in mechanisms and therapy for fibromyalgia
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 19 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01344-4Fibromyalgia remains a challenge for researchers and clinicians. Three studies published in 2025 shed light on mechanisms and management by implicating gut microbiota in symptom perpetuation, demonstrating the potential of home-based neuromodulation, and examining the uncertain role of low-dose naltrexone.nature.comFibroblast heterogeneity in 2025
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 19 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01345-3Advances in cellular and spatial profiling technologies have rapidly expanded the understanding of fibroblast heterogeneity within the target tissues of disease. In 2025, there has been a shift towards a consensus definition of shared cross-tissue fibroblast states and a greater understanding of their molecular drivers and disease-relevant effector functions.nature.comMechanistic link uncovered between EBV infection and SLE
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 18 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01346-2A new study reveals that the Epstein–Barr virus can reprogramme autoreactive B cells into pathogenic antigen-presenting cells in systemic lupus erythematosus, providing a mechanistic link between infection and autoimmunity.nature.com- ✨January Issue✨| Cell-free DNA fragmentation signatures link cancer and autoimmunity The authors of this News & Views article discuss new research that shows similarities in the cfDNA fragmentation signatures observed in cancer and autoimmunity. bit.ly/4j68S4a #Rheumsky #Medsky
Cell-free DNA fragmentation signatures link cancer and autoimmunity - Nature Reviews Rheumatology
Circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) and cfDNA fragmentation signatures are emerging as promising non-invasive biomarkers for various indications, most notably cancer. New analysis of cfDNA fragmentation...bit.ly - ✨January Issue✨| WHO benchmarks for equitable hip-fracture care and osteoporosis treatment in older people This Perspective examines the relevance and implementation of the WHO indicators for timely hip fracture management and secondary prevention in adults aged 60 and over. bit.ly/4paFfAe 🔓
- ✨January Issue✨| Mechanisms of osteoclast activation in inflammatory bone loss in rheumatoid arthritis This Review examines osteoclast regulation in inflammatory bone loss, particularly in RA, and explores promising therapeutic strategies. bit.ly/4pNjMhL #Rheumsky #Medsky
Mechanisms of osteoclast activation in inflammatory bone loss in rheumatoid arthritis - Nature Reviews Rheumatology
The factors and mechanisms that regulate osteoclast-induced inflammatory bone loss are complex. The authors of this Review provide an overview of osteoclast regulation in the context of inflammatory b...bit.ly - ✨January Issue✨| Insights into the pathogenesis of childhood-onset SLE in the past decade The authors highlight the severity of childhood‑onset SLE and the need for more research to improve outcomes. @georgearobinson.bsky.social bit.ly/4qgkrZ2 #Rheumsky #Medsky
Insights into the pathogenesis of childhood-onset SLE in the past decade - Nature Reviews Rheumatology
Childhood-onset SLE is characterized by high disease activity, severe organ damage and substantial treatment challenges. The authors of this Review provide an update on the advances in the understandi...bit.ly - ✨January Issue✨| Monogenic disorders of the TNF signalling pathway This Review outlines the genetic causes, clinical features and current targeted therapeutic strategies for monogenic disorders of the TNF signalling pathway Free to read 🔓: rdcu.be/eVOXL #Rheumsky #Medsky
- ✨January Issue✨| Featuring articles on: - Monogenic disorders of the TNF signalling pathway (🔓: rdcu.be/eVOXL) - Pathogenesis of childhood-onset SLE - Mechanisms of osteoclast activation - WHO Benchmarks for Equitable Hip-Fracture Care in Older Persons (🔓) bit.ly/4sehpqc #Rheumsky #Medsky
Advances in understanding preclinical rheumatoid arthritis and prospects for prevention
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 15 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01342-6New research published in 2025 sheds light on the pre-clinical period that precedes the onset of classifiable rheumatoid arthritis, from risk factors to immunological events and opportunities to prevent the transition to clinical disease.bit.lyProgress in mechanisms and therapy for fibromyalgia
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 19 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01344-4Fibromyalgia remains a challenge for researchers and clinicians. Three studies published in 2025 shed light on mechanisms and management by implicating gut microbiota in symptom perpetuation, demonstrating the potential of home-based neuromodulation, and examining the uncertain role of low-dose naltrexone.bit.lyFibroblast heterogeneity in 2025
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 19 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01345-3Advances in cellular and spatial profiling technologies have rapidly expanded the understanding of fibroblast heterogeneity within the target tissues of disease. In 2025, there has been a shift towards a consensus definition of shared cross-tissue fibroblast states and a greater understanding of their molecular drivers and disease-relevant effector functions.bit.lyMechanistic link uncovered between EBV infection and SLE
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 18 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01346-2A new study reveals that the Epstein–Barr virus can reprogramme autoreactive B cells into pathogenic antigen-presenting cells in systemic lupus erythematosus, providing a mechanistic link between infection and autoimmunity.bit.ly- Reposted by Nature Reviews Rheumatology[Not loaded yet]
Monogenic disorders of the TNF signalling pathway
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 11 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01327-5Monogenic disorders involving key elements of the TNF pathway now encompass a diverse and expanding group of conditions, spanning autoinflammatory, autoimmune, immunodeficiency and neurodegenerative diseases. This Review discusses the genetic causes, clinical features and current therapeutic strategies for these disorders, emphasizing the value of accurate molecular diagnosis and targeted interventions.bit.lyThe dawn of ‘off-the-shelf’ B cell-depleting therapies for autoimmune diseases
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 10 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01343-5In 2025, a new wave of ‘off-the-shelf’ B cell-depleting modalities for the treatment of autoimmune diseases emerged, encompassing allogeneic cellular therapies, in vivo chimeric antigen receptor engineering, and bispecific antibodies.bit.lyAdvances in understanding preclinical rheumatoid arthritis and prospects for prevention
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 15 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01342-6New research published in 2025 sheds light on the pre-clinical period that precedes the onset of classifiable rheumatoid arthritis, from risk factors to immunological events and opportunities to prevent the transition to clinical disease.bit.lyThe future of autologous stem cell transplantation in systemic sclerosis
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 09 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01341-7Autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation revolutionized the treatment of severe systemic sclerosis as the first therapy able to induce long-term remission in this relentlessly fibrosing disease. Nevertheless, questions remain about patient selection, conditioning, and how this treatment fits into the evolving immune-modifying therapeutic landscape. The field should move beyond standardization towards precision therapy.bit.lyEmerging and underrecognized viral triggers of autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic disease flares
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 08 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01333-7In this Review, the authors summarize the potential role of emerging viruses in autoimmune rheumatic diseases (AIRDs). They describe the association between viruses and AIRD flare ups, the putative mechanisms linking AIRD to viral infections and hormone modulation of viral pathogenesis and autoimmune diseases.bit.lyEndosome traffic in rheumatic diseases: mechanistic insights and therapeutic opportunities
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 08 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01336-4Endosomal traffic orchestrates important immune functions, including receptor signalling, antigen processing and metabolic regulation, and has a pivotal role in maintaining self-tolerance. Disruption of these pathways contributes to autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis, offering new therapeutic opportunities.bit.ly- Reposted by Nature Reviews Rheumatology[Not loaded yet]
Monogenic disorders of the TNF signalling pathway
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 11 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01327-5Monogenic disorders involving key elements of the TNF pathway now encompass a diverse and expanding group of conditions, spanning autoinflammatory, autoimmune, immunodeficiency and neurodegenerative diseases. This Review discusses the genetic causes, clinical features and current therapeutic strategies for these disorders, emphasizing the value of accurate molecular diagnosis and targeted interventions.bit.lyThe dawn of ‘off-the-shelf’ B cell-depleting therapies for autoimmune diseases
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 10 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01343-5In 2025, a new wave of ‘off-the-shelf’ B cell-depleting modalities for the treatment of autoimmune diseases emerged, encompassing allogeneic cellular therapies, in vivo chimeric antigen receptor engineering, and bispecific antibodies.bit.lyUnravelling the cellular mechanisms of VEXAS syndrome
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 05 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01340-8A new study uncovers how UBA1 mutations in VEXAS syndrome simultaneously promote myeloid inflammatory cell death and skew haematopoietic stem cells towards a myeloid lineage.bit.lyThe future of autologous stem cell transplantation in systemic sclerosis
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 09 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01341-7Autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation revolutionized the treatment of severe systemic sclerosis as the first therapy able to induce long-term remission in this relentlessly fibrosing disease. Nevertheless, questions remain about patient selection, conditioning, and how this treatment fits into the evolving immune-modifying therapeutic landscape. The field should move beyond standardization towards precision therapy.bit.ly- A look back at the 2025 Nature Reviews Rheumatology covers, our art editor Steven Hall is brilliant🎨👏 Looking forward to the wonderful cover art that 2026 will bring!
- Reposted by Nature Reviews Rheumatology[Not loaded yet]
- Reposted by Nature Reviews Rheumatology[Not loaded yet]
Emerging and underrecognized viral triggers of autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic disease flares
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 08 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01333-7In this Review, the authors summarize the potential role of emerging viruses in autoimmune rheumatic diseases (AIRDs). They describe the association between viruses and AIRD flare ups, the putative mechanisms linking AIRD to viral infections and hormone modulation of viral pathogenesis and autoimmune diseases.bit.lyEndosome traffic in rheumatic diseases: mechanistic insights and therapeutic opportunities
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 08 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01336-4Endosomal traffic orchestrates important immune functions, including receptor signalling, antigen processing and metabolic regulation, and has a pivotal role in maintaining self-tolerance. Disruption of these pathways contributes to autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis, offering new therapeutic opportunities.bit.lyAdvances in AI-based patient stratification for rheumatic diseases
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 03 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01337-3Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming patient stratification in rheumatology. In 2025, three landmark studies demonstrated how multimodal AI approaches spanning clinical, molecular and longitudinal data can uncover distinct disease subtypes and predict therapeutic response, advancing the field towards precision rheumatology.bit.lyOsteoarthritis as a systemic disease
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 03 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01332-8Emerging evidence suggests a paradigm shift in viewing osteoarthritis (OA) as a systemic, bidirectional disease. This Review examines the current data supporting this concept, outlines key challenges in research approaches, and proposes strategies to improve preclinical studies and clinical trial design.bit.lyPD-1, BTLA and TIGIT as therapeutic targets for rheumatic disease
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 02 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01296-9Immune-checkpoint agonists are a promising therapeutic approach for autoimmune disease. This Review discusses the immune-checkpoint receptors PD-1, BTLA and TIGIT as well as the preclinical and clinical evidence for therapeutically targeting these receptors for the treatment of rheumatic diseases.bit.lyAdvances in RNA-based nanotherapies for arthritis
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 01 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01339-1Many of the current therapies for arthritis lack a targeted approach, limiting clinical benefits. Nanoparticle-based delivery systems have enabled more precise and efficient delivery of therapeutic agents, particularly nucleic acids. Studies in 2025 emphasize the promise of these strategies for the treatment of various forms of arthritis.bit.lyUnravelling the cellular mechanisms of VEXAS syndrome
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 05 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01340-8A new study uncovers how UBA1 mutations in VEXAS syndrome simultaneously promote myeloid inflammatory cell death and skew haematopoietic stem cells towards a myeloid lineage.bit.ly- Reposted by Nature Reviews Rheumatology[Not loaded yet]
- Reposted by Nature Reviews RheumatologyHonored to share our new paper, Osteoarthritis as a Systemic Disease, in @natrevrheum.nature.com, out today: rdcu.be/eSXLW - thanks to Ida Haugen, @tuhinaneogi.bsky.social and @farsh-g.bsky.social for your input on gaps and opportunities.
Osteoarthritis as a systemic disease
Nature Reviews Rheumatology - Emerging evidence suggests a paradigm shift in viewing osteoarthritis (OA) as a systemic, bidirectional disease. This Review examines the current data supporting this...rdcu.be Advances in AI-based patient stratification for rheumatic diseases
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 03 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01337-3Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming patient stratification in rheumatology. In 2025, three landmark studies demonstrated how multimodal AI approaches spanning clinical, molecular and longitudinal data can uncover distinct disease subtypes and predict therapeutic response, advancing the field towards precision rheumatology.bit.lyOsteoarthritis as a systemic disease
Nature Reviews Rheumatology, Published online: 03 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41584-025-01332-8Emerging evidence suggests a paradigm shift in viewing osteoarthritis (OA) as a systemic, bidirectional disease. This Review examines the current data supporting this concept, outlines key challenges in research approaches, and proposes strategies to improve preclinical studies and clinical trial design.bit.ly
