266. Predicting Response to Etanercept in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients Using Whole Genome Expression Profiling

Abstract

sample, or when good and poor responders were compared at baseline or at 4 weeks. Statistically significant DGE was observed between baseline and 4 weeks in good responders in 131 genes, 70 up-regulated and 61 down-regulated with the top gene being importin 13 (IPO13). IPO13 is a nuclear transport receptor that mediates nuclear entry of glucocorticoids (GC) and previously it has been shown that MTX regulates the expression of GC receptor alpha and beta. An overview of the biological functions of upand down regulated genes at 4 weeks in good responders are shown in Table 1. Conclusion: This is one of the largest studies of gene expression profiles in patients with RA starting MTX. We have identified a 131 DGE profile in good responders in the first few weeks after MTX commencement and we have identified IPO13 as a potentially important pharmacodynamic biomarker of good response. Disclosure statement: S.L.S. is a PhD student funded by an investigator-initiated award to A.B. from Pfizer. All other authors have declared no conflicts of interest.