In summary, we for the first time found that RLE has pro-apoptotic effect in FLS of CIA rats, and has anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects in IL-6/sIL-6R-stimulated RA-FLS; and that inhibition of the STAT3 signaling pathway contributes to the underlying mechanisms (Fig. 7). This evidence concerns the gene STAT3 and rheumatoid arthritis.