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ReumaNederland Funds Research Collaboration for Rheumatoid Arthritis
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ReumaNederland (Dutch Arthritis Society) has funded a collaborative research project between Citryll, an Oss-based biotech company, and leading rheumatology centres in the Netherlands. The project aims to investigate Neutrophil Extracellular Trap (NET) biology and its role in rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
The collaboration, named SONNET (Signs Of the Nature of NETosis in rheumatoid arthritis), brings together Citryll and researchers from Amsterdam University Medical Centre, Leiden University Medical Centre, Radboud University Medical Centre, and Reade to explore the relationship between NETs, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and associated conditions such as cardiovascular disease.
NETs are web-like structures released by neutrophils, the most abundant white blood cells in the human body. Composed of DNA, histones, and antimicrobial proteins, NETs play a crucial role in trapping and degrading pathogens. However, research has shown that excessive NET formation may contribute to tissue damage and chronic inflammation in various immune-mediated disorders.
Citryll, a clinical-stage biotech company, is focusing on the development of first-in-class therapeutics targeting NETs for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. Its lead candidate, CIT-013, is a monoclonal antibody designed to inhibit NET formation and enhance NET clearance.
Dr. Renato Chirivi, Chief Technology Officer at Citryll, commented on the collaboration: “Despite available therapies, 30% of RA patients still fail to achieve sustained remission. Working with leading clinical centres on the SONNET project will be crucial to increase our knowledge on how NETs drive inflammatory diseases. The overall aim is to unlock innovative treatment options for RA, allowing a better quality of life for patients.”
Jan-Willem Förch, CEO at ReumaNederland, stated: “Many people with rheumatoid arthritis live with constant pain and limitations in their everyday life and this partnership will ensure increased knowledge in the role NETosis plays in inflammatory disease, bringing us a step closer to our mission to improve the lives of people living with the condition.”
The SONNET project addresses a significant knowledge gap on the interplay between NETs and RA. The research findings may have implications for the development of new RA therapies, as well as other inflammatory conditions.
