The study, which combined the results of genetic data analysis from four well-defined population groups identified a new genetic marker associated with knee osteoarthritis (OA) among North American Caucasians. The genetic marker may identify people who are at increased chance of developing OA. The new findings can help scientists better understand the genetic mechanisms behind OA development and its progression, as well find new methods to prevent and treat OA. Importantly, the study also confirmed three other previously identified genetic markers associated with knee OA.

Federal guidelines suggest older adults with osteoarthritis (OA) engage in a total of 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous exercise a week, completed in increments of at least 10 minutes. For a variety of reasons, only about 10% of older adults with knee OA meet this goal. The good news, however, is researchers have found that as little as 45 minutes of moderate exercise such as walking weekly (even if not completed in 10-minutes segments) can still provide significant benefits.

Thurston Arthritis Research Center scientist Doug Phanstiel, PhD, has received a three-year “Independence Award” grant from the National Human Genome Research Institute at the NIH. The research he will conduct under this grant is designed to help scientists better understand a variety of biological processes that play key roles in regulating immune cell development, including DNA looping and regulation of transcription.

The National Institutes of Health have issued important new guidelines that are relevant for parents of children with peanut allergy. Thurston Allergist Edwin Kim, MD helps explain the significance of the guidelines, which are a departure from much of the traditional wisdom related to children with food allergies.

Amanda Nelson, MD, MSCR, RhMSUS, a rheumatologist at the UNC Thurston Arthritis Research Center, has received the “Innovative Research Award” from the Rheumatology Research Foundation. This grant will enable her to study the association between features of osteoarthritis (OA) that are observable with ultrasound compared to radiographic (X-ray) observations and symptoms, as well as the potential influence of factors such as age, sex, race, obesity and prior injury.

The American College of Rheumatology (ACR)/Association of Rheumatology Health Professionals (ARHP) annual conference is the world’s premier meeting of its type and provides important research and clinical updates that benefit the scientific community, physicians and patients. At this year’s conference Thurston Arthritis Research Center (TARC) experts played key roles in helping advance research and initiatives that are focused on improving the lives of people affected by rheumatologic diseases.

Patients with chronic inflammatory diseases such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus are at a higher risk of infections compared to the general population. Despite the increased risks, too often these patients do not receive the proper vaccinations. Two UNC physicians are taking steps to address this important health issue.

The multi-faceted educational program addresses the public’s need to better understand the causes, impact and options for managing the broad spectrum of rheumatologic diseases. More than 52 million Americans — young and old — live with sometimes painful, and potentially debilitating rheumatic diseases.

Dr. Queen is recognized for years of innovative research and outstanding clinical care. She has been actively involved with the Thurston Arthritis Research Center in many different roles, and has repeatedly demonstrated outstanding research acumen as well as a passion for helping patients

This research is the first to clearly identify and illuminate a specific mechanism of action involved in lupus. Funding from the Lupus Research Institute is helping pave the way for additional research, and TARC has begun enrolling patients for a clinical trial designed provide additional insights into this disease.