The present invention provides compositions and methods for the treatment of autoimmune diseases, in particular rheumatoid arthritis. Compounds which function as antagonists of Toll-like Receptor 2 are shown to suppress the immune response which result in the onset and progression of autoimmune disease. In particular monoclonal antibodies which have a binding specificity to Toll-like receptor 2 are disclosed for use in methods for the treatment and/or prophylaxis of autoimmune disease.