Novel insights into the mechanisms of how viruses cause arthritis/arthralgia

Many viruses are known to cause arthritis (eg HIV, hepatitis viruses, mosquito borne viruses). Symptoms of viral arthritis include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. The mechanism of disease is poorly understood. We have developed a novel animal model of disease by which to study arthritic disease caused by viral infections. This model provides an excellent opportunity to explore the basic mechanisms of viral arthritis in a complete functioning animal and to explore new treatment regimes