Section: Research

Robert Zurier, M.D.

Academic Role: Professor

Faculty Appointment(s) In:
   Medicine
   Rheumatology

Other Affiliation(s):
   Cell Biology
   Pathology
   Program in Immunology and Virology

Fatty Acids, Inflammation, Immune Responses and Rheumatoid Arthritis

This research program investigates biochemical and molecular mechanisms through which individual fatty acids influence signal transduction, cellular activation, and participate in immune and inflammatory responses. Particular fatty acids, such as gammalinolenic acid (GLA) and dihomogammalinolenic acid (DGLA) may be effective anti-inflammatory/ immunomodulating agents. Mechanisms of action include alteration of eicosanoid production, direct effects on T lymphocyte activation, and suppression of synovial cell proliferation. GLA administration also suppresses acute and chronic inflammation, including arthritis, in several animal models. Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled therapeutic trials of GLA in patients with rheumatoid arthritis indicate that GLA suppresses joint pain and swelling in patients with active synovitis.

Office: LRB 315
Phone: 508-856-6246
E-mail: Robert.Zurier@umassmed.edu
Keywords: Autoimmunity, Clinical Research, Animal Models of Disease, Gene Expression, Inflammation/Inflammatory Diseases

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