Plant-derived compound slows rheumatoid arthritis in rats by rebalancing fatty acid metabolism

A plant-derived compound called obakulactone (OL) alleviates arthritis symptoms and joint damage in a rat model of RA by promoting ACOT1 degradation via the ubiquitin–proteasome pathway, correcting disrupted unsaturated fatty acid metabolism, and modulating immune cells and inflammatory signals. The study identifies ACOT1 as a potential drug target and suggests a new preclinical strategy for RA, though its safety and efficacy in humans remain to be tested.