A human glucocorticoid receptor gene variant that increases the stability of the glucocorticoid receptor beta-isoform mRNA is associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

Our findings show an association between RA and a previously unreported polymorphism in the hGR gene. This polymorphism increased stability of hGRbeta mRNA, which could contribute to an altered glucocorticoid sensitivity since the hGRbeta is thought to function as an inhibitor of hGRalpha activity.