Amsbio reports how researchers from the Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden are using their Adeno Associated Virus (AAV) products in a groundbreaking investigation into the causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis pain.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) pain is not explained well by inflammation alone. In a new peer reviewed study** the Swedish researchers describe the multitude of approaches they used to uncover the neural basis and causes of the inflammatory pain. In one described methodology the researchers used AAV produced by Amsbio for conditional Ifnar1 knockout in sensory neuron and pharmacological inhibition, which lead to alleviation of joint pain and restoration of dexterity and paw function.

This pioneering AAV approach let the researchers functionally interrogate the exact joint-innervating neurons, rather than inferring joint involvement from skin sensitivity or broad Dorsal Root Ganglion manipulation.

The authors of the paper conclude that joint pain in RA is caused by a defined cytokine and signalling pathway and holds promise for targeted therapies for pain relief in arthritis.

Amsbio offers a comprehensive range of ready-to-use AAV products for both in vitro and in vivo applications. These high-quality recombinant AAV vectors and complete AAV Expression Systems can be used to express shRNA, or human ORF. For further information please visit https://www.amsbio.com/products/cells-cell-culture/viral-delivery/adeno-associated-viral-particles or contact Amsbio on +31-72-8080244 / +44-1235-828200 / +1-617-945-5033 / [email protected].

To read the Karolinska institute, paper in full please visit https://www.nature.com/articles/s41593-026-02234-y.

Amsbio, part of the Europa Biosite group, is a leading life sciences company supporting drug discovery, translational research, and cell and gene therapy across Europe, North America, and wider international markets. With in depth expertise in advanced cell culture, 3D cell models, and cryopreservation, Amsbio is well placed to help researchers progress from early discovery through to clinical and GMP-ready applications. The company’s portfolio of innovative products and services supports multiple stages of the research pipeline, spanning target discovery, assay development, and disease modelling, through to stem cell and organoid-based research. Key solutions include the integrated stem call platform combining StemFit™ media, iMatrix™ recombinant laminins, and CELLBANKER™ cryopreservation technology, alongside extracellular matrix technologies, biospecimens, glycobiology tools, kits and assays, and a wide range of custom services including viral delivery. Drawing on extensive GMP expertise and a comprehensive human and animal biorepository, Amsbio is internationally recognized for delivering high-quality, application-ready products and services. Amsbio has a consistent record of close scientific collaboration with partners in academic, biotech, and pharmaceutical markets to translate innovation from bench to bedside.

** Su, J., Zhang, MD., Kupari, J. et al. Persistent interferon signalling causes sensory neuron plasticity and pain before and during arthritis. Nat Neurosci (2026).