SHIFTS in gut microbiome composition may signal the onset of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in individuals genetically or environmentally predisposed to the disease, according to research in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases.
The study found gut microbiome 'instability' in individuals at risk for RA, although it's unclear whether these changes cause or result from the disease's development.
Tracking 124 people at risk, seven newly diagnosed RA patients, and 22 healthy individuals over 15 months, researchers identified lower microbial diversity in those progressing to RA.
Participants at risk were identified by anti-CCP antibodies - an RA-specific immune response - and recent joint pain.
Notably, lower microbial diversity was linked to higher anti-CCP levels and other recognised RA risk factors, such as genetic markers.
Certain strains, particularly Prevotellaceae species, appeared more frequently in those progressing to RA, suggesting a potential role in disease onset.
The study's limitations - such as its small sample size and observational design - prevent definitive conclusions, but researchers propose these microbial shifts may help identify those most at risk.
The findings highlight the need for personalised RA prevention strategies, for those nearing clinical disease development.
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