Overexpression of TLR2 and TLR9 on monocyte subsets of active rheumatoid arthritis patients contributes to enhance responsiveness to TLR agonists

Synovial infiltration of monocytes is commonly associated with inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are innate sensors that recognize cell debris and microbial components in host, a process contributing to maintain chronic inflammation in RA. We assessed the expression levels of TLR2 and TLR9 in monocyte subsets of active RA patients and characterized their cytokine profiles in response to synthetic and viral TLR2 and TLR9 agonists, including Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) which is suspected to contribute to RA symptoms. Prevalence of monocyte subsets CD14(++) CD16(-... Mehr ...