Study links gut microbiome changes to early signs of rheumatoid arthritis in at-risk individuals

A recent study from the UK found that changes in gut microbiome diversity may signal the early onset of rheumatoid arthritis in at-risk individuals. Those who developed the disease within 10 months showed significant instability in their gut bacteria. Participants with anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies had lower gut microbiome diversity compared to healthy controls. The study identified specific strains, particularly from the Prevotellaceae family, that were more abundant in those who later developed rheumatoid arthritis. The research suggests that monitoring gut microbiome changes could help in early detection of rheumatoid arthritis. These findings highlight the potential of gut bacteria as indicators for predicting the disease.