Complementary Use of Resveratrol Improves Low-Grade Chronic Inflammation Unresolved by Standard DMARD Therapy in Rheumatoid Arthritis
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Background
Chronic low-grade inflammation in long-standing rheumatoid arthritis (RA) contributes not only to joint damage but also to metabolic dysregulation, endothelial dysfunction, and elevated cardiovascular (CV) risk. Although combination disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) remain the mainstay of therapy, their long-term efficacy in controlling systemic inflammation and preventing metabolic complications appears limited. Phytochemicals such as resveratrol , a polyphenolic compound widely used in traditional and complementary medicine possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties.
Objectives
To investigate whether resveratrol can complement the immunomodulatory effects of combination DMARDs in long-duration RA patients by modulating inflammatory cytokines and the JNK–IRS–Akt insulin signaling axis.
Methods
This study enrolled early and late rheumatoid arthritis patients to assess disease activity, vascular markers, and ex-vivo PBMC responses. PBMCs were isolated for cytotoxicity testing and resveratrol treatment, followed by ELISA and Western blot analysis. Statistical comparisons evaluated immunomodulatory effects and inflammatory signaling alterations.
Results
Longitudinal follow-up of RA patients showed significant first-year improvement in disease activity and atherosclerotic markers, correlated with MTX dose. Early versus late RA comparison revealed heightened cytokines and enhanced JNK-mediated stress signaling in longstanding disease. Resveratrol displayed safe PBMC viability, reduced LPS-induced TNF-α and adipokines, and downregulated p-JNK and GSK-3β, indicating targeted anti-inflammatory modulation independent of Akt activation.
Conclusion
Chronic RA showed persistent inflammatory and metabolic dysregulation driven by JNK–NF-κB activation. Resveratrol reduced cytokines, corrected adipokine imbalance, and selectively inhibited JNK, suggesting adjunct therapeutic value alongside DMARDs for improving immunometabolic disturbances in long-standing RA.
Graphical Abstract
Highlights of the study
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DMARDs therapy against atherosclerotic indices tends to plateau in long-term.
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Chronic RA elevates TNF-α, leptin levels and activates JNK–IRS-1–Akt signaling.
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Resveratrol significantly downregulates cytokines and p-JNK signaling in PBMCs.
