In support of this hypothesis, a study in patients with rheumatoid arthritis showed that the levels of VCAM-1 were significantly higher in synovial fluid samples compared with simultaneously obtained plasma samples [22], indicating a translocation of soluble VCAM-1 from the joints to the systemic circulation; however, it is also possible that soluble VCAM-1 is derived from microvessels of the subchondral bone or the synovium. The gene discussed is VCAM1; the disease is rheumatoid arthritis.