Emerging biomarkers in psoriatic arthritis

So Yeon Paek, Henry Ford Health System
Ling Han, Henry Ford Health System
Matthew Weiland, Henry Ford Health System
Chuan-Jian Lu
Kathleen Maksimowicz-McKinnon, Henry Ford Health System
Li Zhou, Henry Ford Health System
Henry W. Lim, Henry Ford Health System
James T. Elder
Qing-Sheng Mi, Henry Ford Health System

Abstract

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated skin disease which affects 2-4% of the worldwide population. Approximately 20-30% of patients with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis (PsA), a frequently destructive and disabling condition. As skin manifestations precede joint symptoms in nearly all patients with PsA, identification of biomarkers for early prediction of joint damage is an important clinical need. Because not all patients with PsA respond to treatment in the same fashion, identification of biomarkers capable of predicting therapeutic response is also imperative. Here, we review existing literature and discuss current investigations to identify potential biomarkers for PsA disease activity, with particular emphasis on microRNAs as novel markers of interest. Serum (soluble) biomarkers, peripheral osteoclast precursor as cellular biomarkers, and genetic loci associated with skin and joint disease are also reviewed.