The synovium lines the entire inner surface of the joint, except where the joint is lined withcartilage.
The synovium is made up of an outer layer (subintima) and an inner layer (intima).
The cells of the intima are called synoviocytes.
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Underneath the layer of synoviocytes, there is either adipose tissue or fibrous tissue.
It also acts as a seal around the joint cavity to keep the fluid inside.
The synovium and cartilage are both parts of the joint.
Synovial Fluid
The synovial fluid is the thick liquid produced by the synovium.
Synovial fluid provides cushion for your joints and helps keep them lubricated.
This is what protects the cartilage in your joints from friction damage.
The Synovium in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Like many other rheumatic diseases,rheumatoid arthritisis anautoimmune disease.
In rheumatoid arthritis, immune system cells travel to the synovium and initiateinflammation(synovitis).
As rheumatoid arthritis progresses, the inflamed synovium invades anddestroys the cartilage and boneof the joint.
Treatments to Target Inflamed Synovium - Are They Coming?
Researchers have been interested in developing tissue-specific treatments for rheumatoid arthritis.
Potential drugs could target the synovium with increased efficacy and decreased systemic toxicity.
Although advancements have been made in this area, a specific synovial receptor has yet to be discovered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Synovitis is an inflammation of the synovial membrane.
It can be brought on by joint overuse and arthritis (except for osteoarthritis).
The function of synovial fluid is to provide cushioning for the bones that make up your joints.
It is an essential component for joint movement and is produced within the synovium.
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