Our research focus
The Neurorheumatology and pain research group investigates rheumatic pain as a distinct and complex phenomenon that cannot be fully explained by joint inflammation alone.
Despite major advances in antirheumatic and biologic therapies, around one fifth of patients continue to experience persistent, difficult‑to‑treat pain, which significantly reduces quality of life. Our research aim to uncover:
- What causes persistent pain in diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
- Which biological mechanisms maintain pain even after inflammation is treated
- How chronic pain can be predicted, prevented, and better managed
This work is grounded in the analysis of blood, cerebrospinal fluid, and functional MRI, allowing the team to map pain‑related pathways in both the immune system and the central nervous system. Immune mediators that amplify pain signaling. Moreover, we investigate immune mediators that amplify pain signaling and the interplay between fatigue, pain, and disease activity.
Clinical relevance and societal impact
Chronic pain and fatigue remain among the most disabling symptoms for people with autoimmune diseases. Even when inflammation is well treated, pain can continue to impair work ability, daily functioning, and quality of life.
Our research addresses this gap by:
- Improving understanding of pain mechanisms
- Supporting development of more effective pain treatments
- Reducing long‑term disability and healthcare burden
- Enhancing patient‑centered outcomes in rheumatology