Rheumatoid Factor Inhibitors

The chemical class of Rheumatoid Factor Inhibitors encompasses compounds that affect the production or function of Rheumatoid Factor by targeting various biological pathways and cellular processes. These inhibitors are not specifically designed to bind with or neutralize RF directly but work by modulating the immune system or specific cellular mechanisms that lead to the decrease of RF production.

Most chemicals in this class are small molecules that can cross cell membranes and affect intracellular enzymes or signaling pathways. For example, methotrexate and leflunomide disrupt nucleotide synthesis, which is crucial for the proliferation of B-cells, the cells responsible for producing RF. Cyclophosphamide acts by damaging DNA, leading to apoptosis of B-cells. Hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine, azathioprine, and mycophenolate mofetil all have multiple mechanisms of action, including modulation of immune cell signaling and suppression of inflammatory responses, which can lead to reduced activity of B-cells. Other compounds like tocilizumab, abatacept, and anakinra are larger molecules that interact with immune cell surface receptors or cytokines, thereby blocking the signals required for B-cell activation and proliferation. The JAK inhibitors, tofacitinib and ruxolitinib, prevent the action of Janus kinases, which are essential for the signaling of many cytokines and growth factors involved in the immune response and B-cell activity.