Lysyl oxidase exacerbates rheumatoid arthritis through promoting angiogenesis and the proliferation of fibroblast-like synoviocytes

• LOX expression is elevated in RA synovium and positively correlates with microvascular density, suggesting a role in pannus formation. • LOX promotes proliferation of fibroblast-like synoviocytes and angiogenesis in vitro, effects reversed by the LOX inhibitor BAPN. • Mechanistically, LOX activates the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, contributing to synovial hyperplasia and neovascularization. • Targeting LOX may offer a novel therapeutic strategy for rheumatoid arthritis.