Genetic risk factors for RA susceptibility and severity have been widely studied. The main goal of Dr. Wu’s project is to map the gene found to contribute to early RA onset. She is studying specific genes to better understand the genetic difference between early-onset and late-onset RA. Identifying the risk factors may enable scientists to distinguish between those individuals at low risk from those who are at high risk for development of early RA. RA patients at high risk may benefit from early, aggressive treatment to prevent severe joint damage from developing.