Subscribe now

Health

Red light could be used to precisely target rheumatoid arthritis drugs

By Clare Wilson

4 May 2020

Woman holding wrist

Arthritis can be very painful

ljubaphoto/iStockphoto/Getty

People with rheumatoid arthritis often take potent medicines that relieve their pain but have damaging side-effects. An alternative approach could see the medicines given in a form that is activated when people shine red light on their affected joints, allowing them to take lower doses.

The system has only been tested in mice, so is likely to be several years away from use, but some of the different elements have been shown to work separately in people.

In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system attacks the joints, so it is often treated with injections of…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

Popular articles

Trending New Scientist articles

Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop