Collagen Induced Arthritis (CIA) is an experimental model of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) commonly used in research and pharmaceutical studies. It is an autoimmune disease that is induced in laboratory animals, most commonly mice, by injecting them with specific types of collagen proteins found in the joints. This model is designed to mimic the key features of RA observed in humans, such as chronic inflammation and destruction of the joints.
In CIA, the animals' immune system mistakenly recognizes the collagen as a foreign invader and initiates an immune response. This leads to the activation of various immune cells, including T-cells and B-cells, which release inflammatory substances like cytokines and antibodies. The immune response triggers inflammation in the joints, resulting in swelling, pain, and stiffness.
Over time, the chronic inflammation caused by CIA can lead to damage and destruction of the cartilage, bone erosion, and joint deformity. Symptoms in animals, such as limited range of motion and swollen joints, resemble those experienced by RA patients. Therefore, CIA serves as a valuable tool in studying the mechanisms underlying RA pathogenesis and in assessing the effectiveness of potential therapies.
By understanding the processes involved in CIA, researchers strive to gain insights into the development and progression of RA, potentially leading to the discovery of new treatment options for this debilitating autoimmune disease.
