Redox–Immune Crosstalk in Autoimmune Disorders: The Underexplored Role of Antioxidants in Modulating Rheumatoid Factor Production and Activity
Kibibi Muthoni L.
Faculty of Science and Technology Kampala International University Uganda
ABSTRACT
Autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) arise from a breakdown in immune tolerance, leading to chronic inflammation, autoantibody production, and progressive tissue destruction. Among these autoantibodies, rheumatoid factor (RF)-an immunoglobulin directed against the Fc region of IgG-serves not only as an important diagnostic biomarker but also as a mechanistic contributor to disease amplification and chronicity. Increasing evidence indicates that oxidative stress and redox imbalance are critical drivers of autoimmune activation, antigen modification, and RF production. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by activated neutrophils, macrophages, and synovial fibroblasts can modulate antigen structure, enhance immunogenicity, and alter B-cell signalling dynamics, thereby creating a feed-forward loop of inflammation and autoantibody formation. However, the physiological redox system, including enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, serves as a counterbalance that can restrain excessive immune activation. Emerging research suggests that antioxidant molecules can influence B-cell tolerance, antigen processing, cytokine patterns, and Fc-receptor–mediated pathways linked to RF activity. Despite this, the therapeutic potential of antioxidants remains underinvestigated and poorly integrated into current treatment paradigms for autoimmune diseases. This review explores the redox–immune interface in autoimmune pathology, elucidates molecular mechanisms linking oxidative stress to RF production and pathogenicity, and critically evaluates the potential of antioxidant strategies in modulating these pathways. We highlight key research gaps and propose future directions for incorporating redox-based interventions into comprehensive autoimmune disease management.
Keywords: Rheumatoid factor, oxidative stress, redox signalling, antioxidants, autoimmune disorders
CITE AS: Kibibi Muthoni L. (2026). Redox–Immune Crosstalk in Autoimmune Disorders: The Underexplored Role of Antioxidants in Modulating Rheumatoid Factor Production and Activity. IDOSR JOURNAL OF BIOCHEMISTRY, BIOTECHNOLOGY AND ALLIED FIELDS 11(1):26-30. https://doi.org/10.59298/IDOSR/JBBAF/2026/1022630