The impact of gut microbiota in rheumatoid arthritis: a scoping review

Abstract

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is one of the most common autoimmune chronic inflammatory rheumatic diseases, leading to progressive joint destruction and disability. Gut dysbiosis contributes to the disruption of the integrity of the intestinal barrier and immune dysfunction. The impact of alterations in gut bacterial composition in individuals with preclinical and established RA remains controversial. Understanding the role of the gut microbiota in the incidence and outcomes of RA will improve prevention and optimize treatment approaches for this high-burden disease. There is sparse literature published on the role of gut microbiota in RA. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions aimed at restoring the gut microbiota show promise in preventing and slowing RA progression. However, the complex interplay between the gut microbiota and autoimmune pathways in RA requires further investigation.