Researchers discovered an early sign of arthritis, identifying the disease up to 10 months before its onset.

A new study has revealed that specific changes in the gut microbiome may occur several months before the clinical onset of rheumatoid arthritis, potentially creating a crucial preventive window for at-risk individuals, researchers stated. Timely treatment of this condition could enhance the quality of life for millions, according to News Medical.

The research, led by Dr. Christopher Rooney from the University of Leeds and published in the journal Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, identified an increase in inflammatory bacteria, such as Prevotella, in the gut approximately ten months prior to the clinical manifestations of rheumatoid arthritis. These findings suggest that the gut may play a more active role in the disease's development than previously thought, opening up new avenues for early intervention strategies.

Rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic autoimmune disorder affecting millions, is characterized by painful swelling and stiffness in the joints as the immune system attacks healthy tissues. While earlier studies suggested a link between gut health and rheumatoid arthritis, this scientific work has established clearer timelines and patterns. Researchers noted that among 19 participants at risk, five who subsequently developed rheumatoid arthritis exhibited significantly lower microbiome stability and a higher presence of inflammation-related bacteria compared to those whose disease did not progress.

Based on these observations, the researchers proposed that lifestyle interventions at this ten-month mark could potentially delay or prevent the onset of the disease. Their recommended strategies include dietary adjustments, such as increasing fiber intake, as well as the use of probiotics or prebiotics. As a preventive measure, the authors also suggest maintaining oral hygiene, considering the connection between oral bacteria and gut health.

Despite these promising results, the precise relationship between changes in the gut microbiome and joint inflammation remains largely unexplored. Some patients involved in the study displayed gut instability even before joint disease symptoms became apparent to healthcare providers, the authors noted. However, the team emphasizes that while certain gut bacteria are associated with rheumatoid arthritis, there is no evidence that the disease is transmissible.

The study, supported by the Leeds Biomedical Research Centre and local hospitals, included collaboration between patients and researchers to streamline sample collection methods, making participation easier for the former. Initially, researchers collected samples from 124 individuals with high levels of CCP+ antibodies—a known predictor of rheumatoid arthritis—and compared them with healthy individuals and those recently diagnosed. The results indicated a lower diversity of gut microbiome in at-risk individuals compared to healthy counterparts, underscoring the potential importance of microbiome diversity for health.

With these findings, the Leeds research team aims to conduct further analysis of existing treatment methods to identify preventive options specifically for the identified ten-month period. This could prove invaluable for patients feeling hopeless in managing risk factors due to the absence of immediate treatment.

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