Clinical trials of new therapies for rheumatic diseases are a critically important aspect of our division's research mission. Our active clinical trials program encompasses both observational and interventional studies in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), lupus, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and other rheumatic diseases.
Historically, we have maintained a robust research enterprise in RA. Pioneering studies demonstrating the benefits of methotrexate for the treatment of RA led by Michael E. Weinblatt, MD, originated at the Brigham, as did landmark studies of biological therapies such as anti-TNF agents.
In addition, Dr. Weinblatt and Nancy A. Shadick, MD, MPH, lead the Brigham and Women's Rheumatoid Arthritis Sequential Study (BRASS). This registry began enrollment in 2003 and is comprised of over 1,500 RA patients followed over many years. It contains a robust dataset of disease characteristics with the goal of answering important questions about the management of RA, disease associations and predictors of disease.
The following registries also reside within our division:
- Brigham Lupus Registry, a database of over 2,500 lupus patients at the Brigham
- Brigham Cohort for Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Registry (COPPAR), a single-center PsO/PsA longitudinal disease registry including biorepository that captures relevant disease markers and treatment choices in a circumscribed population with a defined catchment area
Finally, the Lupus Program, led by Karen H. Costenbader, MD, MPH, is dedicated to promoting the clinical care of lupus patients and research into various aspects of lupus, including new therapies, long-term disease outcomes, causes and health care disparities. In addition, clinical trials in lupus are conducted by Elena Massarotti, MD.
Our current clinical trials span a wide range of topics across rheumatology, inflammation and immunity. Please visit the Mass General Brigham Rally website to search for relevant studies.
