Importantly, multivariate regression analysis revealed that decreased mRNA expressions of ALKBH5, FTO, and YTHDF2 in peripheral blood were risk factors for RA (P = 0.019; P = 0.029; and P < 0.001), suggesting ALKBH5, FTO, and YTHDF2 may play prominent pathogenic roles in the development and progression of RA. This evidence concerns the gene ALKBH5 and rheumatoid arthritis.