Inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis involves specialized cells called fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) and synovial stem cells (JSCs). After disease onset, FLS and JSCs begin an aggressive, cancer-like behavior that contributes to the progressive destruction of joint tissues. Dr. Lefebvre is using innovative technology and patient-derived stem cells to study the role of FLS and JSCs in order to develop new methods of preventing joint damage in RA. By understanding how FLS and JSCs are created and transformed, Dr. Lefebvre and her team can provide new insights into RA disease mechanisms. The impact of Dr. Lefebvre’s research could determine new treatments to help patients like Priscilla.