A study by researchers at the University of Michigan Health System has suggested that a compound in green tea may provide therapeutic benefits to people with rheumatoid arthritis.

The study analyses a potent anti-inflammatory compound derived from green tea. Researchers found that the compound called pigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) -inhibited the production of several molecules in the immune system, that contribute to inflammation and joint damage in people with rheumatoid arthritis.

The compound from green tea also was found to suppress the inflammatory products in the connective tissue of people with rheumatoid arthritis.

"Our research is a very promising step in the search for therapies for the joint destruction experienced by people who have rheumatoid arthritis," said Salah-uddin Ahmed, Ph.D., lead researcher on the study.

To conduct the research, the scientists isolated cells called synovial fibroblasts from the joints of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. These fibroblasts cells that form a lining of the tissue surrounding the capsule of the joints were cultured in a growth medium and incubated with the green tea compound.

The fibroblasts were then stimulated with pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1? A protein of the immune system known to play an important role in causing joint destruction in people with rheumatoid arthritis.

The researchers looked at whether the green tea compound has the capability to block the activity of two potent molecules, IL-6 and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), which also are actively involved in causing bone erosion in the joints of people with rheumatoid arthritis.

To conduct the research, the scientists isolated cells called synovial fibroblasts from the joints of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. These fibroblasts cells that form a lining of the tissue surrounding the capsule of the joints were cultured in a growth medium and incubated with the green tea compound.

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