Unravelling genetics of childhood arthritis

New genes have been found that could have a big impact on the future diagnosis and treatment of childhood arthritis.

Until now only three genes were known to be important in the development of childhood arthritis. But scientists have now looked at DNA from 2,000 children with childhood arthritis, compared it to samples from healthy people and found that 14 more genes play a part.

“To identify these 14 genetic risk factors is quite a big breakthrough,” explains Dr Anne Hinks who co-authored the research. “It will help us to understand what’s causing the condition, how it progresses and then to potentially develop new therapies.”

It is hoped that the study may help experts predict which children need specific treatment earlier and allow doctors to better control their pain and improve their quality of life.