First Biotechnology Product for Arthritis Approved

First Biotechnology Product for Arthritis Approved
The FDA approved a new genetically engineered protein called etanercept to reduce the symptoms of moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis. It can also be used with methotrexate, to help patients who do not benefit from methotrexate alone. Etanercept binds to tumor necrosis factor and inhibits its actions. The tumor necrosis factor is what promotes inflammation in arthritis patients and is found around affected joints of rheumatoid arthritis patients. Clinical trials proved that 59 percent of patients treated with etanercept, compared to 11 percent untreated groups had a reduction in symptoms including swollen and painful joints. After treatment, patients will able to recover normal daily activities .
I found this article important because it demonstrates the advances in biotechnology and the significance of it to find breakthroughs to treat diseases. It is also the first biotechnology product approved by the FDA, this brings hope that research within this area will continue to advance to find treatments for arthritis patients.
http://www.webmd.com/content/article/6/1680_50447.htm