Methotrexate: Balancing Anti-Inflammatory Efficacy and Toxicity in Rheumatoid Arthritis
By: Yi Ke Wu, (Appleby College)
Summary
This project studies the dual effects of methotrexate (MTX) and how it balances the anti-inflammatory and toxic effects in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Methotrexate is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) used to treat RA and can also be used at higher doses for various cancers. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation with common symptoms in the joint.
The research mainly focuses on the dual mechanisms of methotrexate in both its anti-inflammatory and toxic effects. Methotrexate inhibits dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR), which reduces levels of enzymes that cause inflammation, leading to increased adenosine that suppresses rheumatoid arthritis. However, methotrexate can also negatively affect healthy or overactive cells in the liver and bone marrow due to the inhibition of the folate pathway. This leads to the conclusion that the side effects are mostly caused by overdosage or inefficiency in excreting methotrexate from the kidneys. So, future advancements to develop alternatives for methotrexate or to develop a monitoring device may perfectly balance the two effects in rheumatoid arthritis.
Caption: Dual Mechanism of Methotrexate in RA and cancer
(Figure representation created by the author: Yi Ke Wu)
Video Presentation
Impact Statement
Participating in Elio Academy's research program this summer gave me a deeper understanding of biochemistry and pharmacology as a beginner. This experience improved my ability to read and understand technical and complex mechanisms, particularly with my project, which focused on studying the dual mechanisms of methotrexate. Without this research process, using multiple primary sources, I would not have been able to understand or even explain my project to others. Overall, with the guidance of my mentor, this project has deepened my interest in medical research and will influence my choices in my high school pathway.
Student Reflection
By: Yi Ke Wu. The opinions expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Elio Academy.