The expression of autophagy associated proteins in the synovial tissues of RA patients has been reported to be remarkably increased (Beclin1, ATG5, LC3) and significantly correlated with the serum levels of inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR) and autoantibodies (cyclic citrullinated peptide, CCP; and rheumatoid factor, RF). This evidence concerns the gene BECN1 and rheumatoid arthritis.