Study of Intestinal Microbiota Changes in Spondyloarthritis and Their Role in Disease Development

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the role of the bacterium Ruminococcus gnavus in the development of spondyloarthritis SpA compared to healthy individuals undergoing digestive endoscopy. This study aims to understand how this bacterium may be involved in starting and progressing SpA by examining intestinal biopsies and fecal samples. Secondary goals include studying the abundance of R. gnavus, its interaction with intestinal mucus and epithelial cells, gene expression of intestinal mucus, and immune response changes caused by microbial imbalance. Participants will be grouped into those diagnosed with SpA and healthy control subjects who are scheduled for digestive endoscopy for other reasons. The study involves collecting biopsy samples during recto-colonoscopy to analyze the presence and characteristics of R. gnavus. Both groups will undergo similar procedures, and researchers will observe differences in bacterial abundance and interactions within the intestinal environment. During the study, which may last up to two years, participants will have intestinal biopsies and fecal samples collected. Researchers will perform bacterial analyses, RNA sequencing, and cell culture experiments to assess bacteria interactions and immune responses. The main outcomes include isolating and characterizing R. gnavus and understanding its role in SpA development. Participants will be monitored for these outcomes without additional treatment interventions.

The Role of Intestinal Microbiota Dysbiosis in the Development of Spondyloarthritis