Arthritis Research Canada Study Recognized as One of EULAR Rheumatology Open’s Most Impactful Articles of 2025

Vancouver (January 15, 2026) – A study led by Arthritis Research Canada trainee and PhD student Vienna Cheng was selected by the Editor-in-Chief of the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) Rheumatology Open as one of the journal’s Most Impactful Articles of 2025. The study was co-authored and supervised by Arthritis Research Canada scientists Dr. Mary De Vera (Principal Investigator) and Dr. Neda Amiri. This recognition comes as the EULAR Rheumatology Open celebrates its first year as an open-access, peer-reviewed journal advancing research in rheumatology and immunology.

Biologic medications have greatly improved the treatment of autoimmune diseases. While there is data about how one group of these medications, called tumour necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFis), affects pregnancy, much less is known about other biologic medications. To address this gap, the research team reviewed and synthesized 135 studies to better understand how non-TNFi biologic medications for autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis may affect pregnancy outcomes. The study focused on outcomes such as preterm birth, birth defects, and miscarriages, while also highlighting substantial heterogeneity in how drug exposures and pregnancy outcomes are reported. In response, the team developed a novel Reproductive Health Outcomes Reporting Framework to improve standardization, comparability, and interpretability of future pregnancy safety research.

“We are thrilled that our work has been recognized by EULAR Rheumatology Open, especially in the journal’s inaugural Editor’s Selection,” said Cheng. “Our hope is that this framework will support researchers and clinicians in providing meaningful information for people with autoimmune diseases who are considering getting pregnant.”

Congratulations to Vienna Cheng, Dr. Mary De Vera, Dr. Neda Amiri, and all coauthors for this prestigious recognition.

Read the full study here.

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ABOUT ARTHRITIS RESEARCH CANADA:

Arthritis Research Canada is the largest clinical arthritis research institution in North America. Our mission is to transform the lives of people impacted by arthritis through patient-centred research and engagement. Arthritis Research Canada is home to a team of over 100 researchers, trainees and staff whose life-changing research is creating a future where people with arthritis have the knowledge and tools to triumph over pain and disability. Arthritis Research Canada is conducting research from coast to coast with centres in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia and scientists affiliated with 10 major Canadian universities.

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Bernice Rahman
Marketing and Communications Officer
Arthritis Research Canada
brahman@arthritisresearch.ca