Advances in animal models and therapeutic evaluation systems for rheumatoid arthritis: From traditional paradigms to emerging technologies

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by chronic synovitis and progressive joint destruction, with complex pathogenesis and significant clinical heterogeneity. Animal models serve as a critical platform bridging basic research and clinical translation, playing an indispensable role in elucidating the pathological mechanisms of RA, screening therapeutic targets, and evaluating drug efficacy. This article systematically reviews the research progress in RA animal models and therapeutic evaluation systems. Furthermore, it explores the application prospects of emerging technologies such as micro-nano materials and biosensors in RA research, while analyzing the current challenges in translational consistency and standardization of these models. Finally, it looks ahead to future developments, including organoid models and AI-assisted analysis, aiming to provide a systematic reference for precision mechanism research and individualized therapeutic strategy development in RA.