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Editor's Choice


L. I. Filippin, R. Vercelino, N. P. Marroni and R. M. Xavier
Redox signalling and the inflammatory response in rheumatoid arthritis
Clinical & Experimental Immunology (Early View Articles)
doi:10.1111/j.1365-2249.2008.03634.x

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced mainly during oxidative phosphorylation and by activated phagocytic cells during oxidative burst. The excessive production of ROS can damage lipids, protein, membrane and nucleic acids. They also play a role in the intracellular signalling that enhances the inflammatory response. Many studies have demonstrated a role of ROS in the pathogenesis of inflammatory chronic arthropathies, such as rheumatoid arthritis. It is known that ROS can function as a second messenger to activate nuclear factor kappa-B, which orchestrates the expression of a spectrum of genes involved in the inflammatory response. This review from Xavier et al. underlines how an understanding of the complex interactions between these pathways might be useful for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for rheumatoid arthritis. 

D. Bernard, M. Peakman and A. C. Hayday
Establishing humanized mice using stem cells: maximizing the potential
Clinical & Experimental Immunology 152 (3), 406-414
doi:10.1111/j.1365-2249.2008.03659.x

Studies on physiology and pathology as they relate to the immune system draw heavily upon rodent models. With the increasing impetus provided by initiatives in translational medicine, the demand for ever more sophisticated, ‘humanized’ murine models is greater than ever. However, the design and implementation of studies in such mice is far from trivial. Here Hayday et al. provide a technical perspective on the increasing interest in developing humanized mice; giving examples of primary data, starting with the routine procurement of human donor material, through CD34+ cell purification prior to engraftment, to injection into immunocompromised mice. This review aims to provide practical advice to the many investigators who may be commencing or considering such studies.