The pathogenic role of stem cell-like memory T cells in rheumatoid arthritis

Objective: Stem cell-like memory T cells (Tscm) are a subset of memory T cells that have the characteristics of stem cells. The role of Tscm cells in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is unknown. Methods: The transcriptomes of Tscm cells from RA patients were compared with those from HCs. Results: Transcriptome analysis revealed that Tscm cells from RA patients showed patterns distinct from those of HCs. Conclusion: The percentage of transcriptionally distinct and potentially pathogenic Tscm cells are higher in RA patients than in HCs; these cells may be a continuous source of pathogenic T cells, which perpetuate RA. Overall design: mRNA profiles of Tscm cells sorted from PBMCs of healthy controls or severe rheumatoid arthritis patients or rheumatoid arthritis in remission were generated by RNA sequencing.