Diagnostic and Predictive values of CCN3 in a samples of Iraqi patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Background: Cellular communication network factor 3 (CCN3) has emerged as a significant regulatory molecule in the development of various inflammatory diseases, including Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). RA is a chronic inflammatory disorder characterized by inflammation and swelling of the joint synovium, leading to the destruction of articular structures. In addition to joint damage, RA patients often experience systemic inflammation, which is linked to comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease, contributing to their higher morbidity and mortality rates compared to the general population. Aim of the Study: The study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic and predictive utility of CCN3 levels in RA patients compared to controls and to assess its correlation with sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of RA. Subjects, Materials, and Methods: The study included 80 participants, 40 RA patients aged 23-60 years and 40 healthy controls aged 23-61 years. Serum CCN3 levels were analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: Serum CCN3 concentrations were significantly elevated in RA patients compared to healthy controls, suggesting a potential diagnostic role for CCN3 in RA. However, CCN3 levels were not significantly correlated with disease activity or DAS28 scores, indicating it may not reflect disease severity. Conclusions: CCN3 plays an important role in the pathogenesis of RA and shows potential as a diagnostic biomarker. However, its lack of association with disease activity suggests it may be more useful in diagnosing RA rather than monitoring disease progression.