Studying the Link between Rheumatoid Arthritis and Gut Dysbiosis: A Mini Review

Abstract

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints and may lead to disability. Recent advances have allowed us to study the human gut microbiota in great details. Numerous studies have shown that changes in gut microbiota may be playing a critical role in the pathogenesis of RA. In this review we summarize human and animal studies which show evidence that gut microbiota is directly affecting not only the development of RA but also its progression. In this review we also show evidence on how altering gut microbiota could be used as a treatment for RA.