The invention provides anti-14-3-3 eta antibodies that specifically bind tothe human 14-3-3 eta protein isoform in its natural configuration while exhibitingselectivity over human 14-3-3 alpha, beta, delta, epsilon, gamma, tau, and zetaprotein isoforms. Methods, kits and pharmaceutical compositions comprisingsaid specific anti-14-3-3 eta antibodies are further provided for the diagnosisand treatment of arthritis.