On 6 March 2024, Professor Adam Croft, the Versus Arthritis Chair of Rheumatology and Head of the Rheumatology Research Group at the University of Birmingham, delivered his inaugural lecture titled “Restoring Order to the Joint: Fibroblasts as Cellular Checkpoints of Inflammation.”
In his lecture, Professor Croft explored the critical role of fibroblasts—structural cells within joint tissues—in orchestrating inflammation in chronic joint diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. He described fibroblasts as the “conductors of the immunological orchestra,” highlighting their ability to either amplify or suppress inflammatory responses. His research has identified distinct fibroblast subtypes with specific functions: some contribute to joint damage, while others help regulate and resolve inflammation. This understanding paves the way for developing targeted therapies aimed at restoring joint health by modulating fibroblast activity.
The lecture was accessible both in person and online via Zoom, reflecting the university’s commitment to sharing knowledge widely. For those interested in a concise overview of Professor Croft’s insights, the University of Birmingham’s Marketing and Communications Team produced a video ahead of the lecture, available here: https://youtu.be/7pwe0jEzH2Q
