Localization of the alpha v subfamily of integrins and their putative ligands in synovial lining cell layer.

Objective: The lining cell layer of the synovium proliferates strongly in rheumatoid arthritis. It has been suggested that it has a central role in the destruction of cartilage. We have analyzed the structure of the extracellular matrix and the adhesion molecules of normal, osteoarthritic and rheumatoid lining cell layer.

No evidence of adenoviral hexon regions in rheumatoid synovial cells and tissue.

Objective: To investigate whether adenoviral DNA is present in synovial specimens from patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods: Synovial fluid (SF) cells from 53 patients with early RA (duration less than 1 year) and synovial tissue samples of 20 patients with advanced RA were studied by using polymerase chain reaction for the presence of adenoviral DNA. The controls were 21 patients with other arthropathies.

Expression of integrin family of cell adhesion receptors in rheumatoid synovium. Alpha 6 integrin subunit in normal and hyperplastic synovial lining cell layer.

Integrins are heterodimeric cell adhesion receptors. The beta 1 integrin subunit can be in a complex with multiple a subunits and form receptors for collagen, laminin, fibronectin, and vitronectin. We have characterized the distribution of eight integrin subunits in rheumatoid synovium, with special interest in the lining cell layer.