Furthermore, abnormal activation of JAK-STAT signaling in RA synovial joints results in the elevated level of matrix metalloproteinase gene expression, increased frequency of apoptotic chondrocytes and prominent “apoptosis resistance” in the inflamed synovial tissue, contributing to progressive degeneration of articular cartilage (Malemud, 2018). Here, SOAT1 is linked to rheumatoid arthritis.