Oxygen free radicals in rheumatoid arthritis

Current knowledge strongly suggests that oxygen free radicals are involved in the pathogenesis of RA. Additional information about the mechanism of free radical attack is necessary in order to find out if interaction with the mechanism of free radical damage can be used in the treatment of this crippling disease. Attention is focussed on the following main questions: Are protective factors against oxygen free radicals present in sufficient amounts in RA (chapter 2, 3). Is iron available in RA in a form able to catalyse the formation of hydroxyl radicals (chapter 4-6). Are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs able to inhibit o 2- production in vivo (chapter 7).