Antioxidants and Rheumatoid Arthritis

An autoimmune condition known as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) affects a wide range of people. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are generated as a result of oxidative stress, are essential for the development of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. In chondrocytes and synoviocytes, metabolic processes generate free radicals, ROS, and their derivatives. These harmful substances can build up in the synovial joint, where they can cause serious structural harm, inflammation, and cell death. Natural reducing agents known as antioxidants can scavenge free radicals, prevent the generation of ROS, and eliminate ROS derivatives. The immune system, cell differentiation, and the modulation of oxidative stress are all significantly influenced by antioxidant vitamins. The antioxidant properties of plant polyphenols, ascorbic acid, α-tocopherol, thiols (glutathione), and other nutrients can lessen oxidative stress in the body and neutralize ROS levels in joints. Understanding how antioxidants impact RA is essential because doing so may enable us to discover strategies for delaying the beginning and development of the ailment. With more emphasis on the significance of oxidative stress on rheumatoid arthritis, this chapter aims to investigate the biological roles of oxidants and naturally occurring antioxidants in the synovial joint at the cellular levels.