The Role of Intestinal Microbiota Dysbiosis in the Development of Spondyloarthritis
This research is investigating if a particular type of gut bacteria, named Ruminococcus gnavus, plays a part in developing spondyloarthritis (SpA). Spondyloarthritis is a type of long-term arthritis that mainly affects the spine and sometimes other joints. The study compares gut samples from people with SpA to those from healthy volunteers who are having an endoscopy for other reasons. By looking closely at these samples, scientists hope to understand if this specific germ, or changes in the mix of germs in the gut, are involved in starting or worsening SpA. This could help find new ways to treat or prevent the condition in the future.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is trying to understand more about a condition called spondyloarthritis (SpA). SpA is a type of arthritis that often affects the spine, causing pain and stiffness, but it can also affect other joints. We know that the germs living in our gut, called the gut microbiome, are really important for our overall health. Sometimes, the balance of these germs can get out of whack, which is called dysbiosis.
Researchers in this study are focusing on a particular germ called Ruminococcus gnavus (R. gnavus). They want to see if having more of this germ, or a different mix of gut germs, is linked to developing SpA. They're doing this by carefully looking at tiny samples from the gut lining (called biopsies) and stool samples from people with SpA. They're also comparing these samples to those from healthy volunteers who are having a routine digestive check-up for other reasons.
By comparing these groups, the study hopes to spot differences in gut bacteria and how they interact with the gut lining. This kind of research is important because if we can understand what triggers conditions like SpA, it might open the door to new ways of treating them, or even preventing them from starting in the first place. It could lead to personalised treatments that target the gut's balance of germs.
Key takeaways
- Investigating gut germs and spondyloarthritis.
- Focusing on a specific germ called Ruminococcus gnavus.
- Compares gut samples from people with and without the condition.
- Aims to understand if gut bacteria play a role in developing the illness.
- Could lead to new ways of treating or preventing spondyloarthritis.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old. If you have spondyloarthritis, you must have been officially diagnosed with the condition according to specific medical guidelines. You also need to be part of a social security scheme, which is common in the UK.
If you're a healthy volunteer, you also need to be at least 18 years old. You shouldn't have spondyloarthritis, but you should be planned to have a digestive endoscopy for another reason, such as checking for bowel cancer risk in your family. Like those with SpA, you'll need to be part of a social security scheme.
You cannot join the study if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, if you've taken antibiotics in the last month, or if you have any serious health problems that might make it hard to understand the study results. You also can't take part if you can't understand the study information or give your consent, or if you simply don't want to participate.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Do you have a diagnosis of spondyloarthritis (if you have the condition)?
- Are you planning to have a digestive endoscopy for another reason (if you are a healthy volunteer)?
- Have you *not* taken antibiotics in the last month?
- Are you *not* pregnant or breastfeeding?
- Do you understand what the study involves and feel able to give your agreement?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, the main step involves giving samples. This will include providing a stool (poo) sample and, if you're having an endoscopy already, a small sample of your gut lining (a biopsy) will be taken during that procedure. This study doesn't involve new medications, extra visits beyond what's already planned for your medical care, or any long-term follow-up separate from your usual doctor's appointments. The total duration of your active involvement will be limited to providing these samples.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Service de Rhumatologie, Hôpital Ambroise Paré, APHPVerified postcodeBoulogne-Billancourt, France· Recruiting
Common questions
What is 'spondyloarthritis'?
It's a type of arthritis that mainly affects the spine, causing pain and stiffness, but can also affect other joints.
What is 'Ruminococcus gnavus'?
It's a specific type of germ (bacteria) that lives in our gut.
What is a 'biopsy'?
It's when a very small tissue sample is taken, usually during a planned medical procedure like an endoscopy, for closer examination.
Will I have to take new medication?
No, this study does not involve taking any new medications.
Can I leave the study if I change my mind?
Yes, you can withdraw from the study at any time without it affecting your medical care.
How to find out more
Maxime BREBAN, MD, PhD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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