06 March 2024 | Yang Yang, Qing Hong, Xuehong Zhang, Zhenmin Liu
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by joint swelling, discomfort, stiffness, osteoporosis, and reduced functionality. The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in the development and progression of RA, with gut microbiota dysbiosis leading to local or systemic adverse effects on the host immune system. Probiotics, which are live microorganisms that confer health benefits to the host when administered in adequate amounts, have been studied for their potential in preventing and treating RA. This review summarizes current research on the role of gut microbiota in RA and the therapeutic and preventive effects of probiotics. Probiotics can regulate systemic inflammation through direct and indirect pathways, ultimately reducing RA disease activity. However, challenges remain in understanding the underlying mechanisms and optimizing probiotic strains for effective treatment. Despite these challenges, the potential of probiotics in managing RA is promising, and further research is needed to validate their efficacy and mechanisms of action.Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by joint swelling, discomfort, stiffness, osteoporosis, and reduced functionality. The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in the development and progression of RA, with gut microbiota dysbiosis leading to local or systemic adverse effects on the host immune system. Probiotics, which are live microorganisms that confer health benefits to the host when administered in adequate amounts, have been studied for their potential in preventing and treating RA. This review summarizes current research on the role of gut microbiota in RA and the therapeutic and preventive effects of probiotics. Probiotics can regulate systemic inflammation through direct and indirect pathways, ultimately reducing RA disease activity. However, challenges remain in understanding the underlying mechanisms and optimizing probiotic strains for effective treatment. Despite these challenges, the potential of probiotics in managing RA is promising, and further research is needed to validate their efficacy and mechanisms of action.