Amelioration of collagen-induced arthritis by CD95 (Apo-1/Fas)-ligand gene transfer

Both rheumatoid arthritis and animal models ofautoimmune arthritis are characterized by hyper-activation of synovial cells and hyperplasia of the synovialmembrane. The activated synovial cells produceinflammatory cytokines and degradative enzymes whichlead to destruction of cartilage and bones. Effectivetreatment of arthritis may require elimination of most orall activated synovial cells. The death factor