Over the past three years, the SQUEEZE project has made important progress towards its overall objectives.
First, the SQUEEZE consortium analysed large amounts of existing clinical data from people living with RA across multiple European countries. These data were carefully collected, cleaned, and harmonised to allow meaningful comparisons between patients. The analyses focused in particular on responses to methotrexate (MTX), which is the most commonly used first-line treatment for RA. The project identified different patterns of disease and patient characteristics that are linked to treatment response and long-term outcomes.
In parallel, SQUEEZE launched three multi-center clinical studies that are currently recruiting patients.
These studies aim to:
1. better classify patients based on their biological characteristics in order to match them with the most suitable treatment;
2. identify the most effective dose and route of administration of MTX; and
3. use laboratory measurements of drug levels to guide treatment adjustments and maintain good disease control over time.
A key area of innovation in SQUEEZE is the investigation of biomarkers to monitor immune system activity. One subproject is studying whether torque teno virus (TTV) levels in the blood can reflect how strongly the immune system is suppressed by RA treatments and if changes in levels relate to treatment response and disease activity.
SQUEEZE is testing and validated new laboratory methods to measure drug levels and treatment adherence, especially for MTX and biological DMARD Adalimumab. These methods help distinguish between patients who do have sufficient levels of medication and those who would benefit from dose adjustments or do not take the medication as prescribed. This should improve overall treatment response and long-term outcomes.
In addition, the SQUEEZE team developed and strengthened a digital care model that helps healthcare teams better support patients in taking their treatments safely and effectively. The model uses patient-reported questionnaires to identify risks, group patients according to their needs, and provide personalized support to improve medication adherence. Key assessment tools were finalized and prepared for use in multiple studies, allowing consistent and reliable monitoring of how well patients follow their treatments in real-world healthcare settings. This helps improve treatment effectiveness and patient safety.
Finally, the SQUEEZE consortium invested strongly in training and professional development. Healthcare professionals and early-career researchers received practical, hands-on training to support the use of the SQUEEZE Care Model in everyday clinical practice. The project also offered workshops, webinars, online courses, exchange visits, and research training, helping participants build skills and experience. Through conference participation, patient engagement activities, and communication initiatives such as videos and social media, SQUEEZE helped researchers and clinicians share their work, connect with patients and stakeholders, and increase their visibility within the international community.
Together, these achievements provide a strong foundation for the next phase of the SQUEEZE project.
