Is the Gut Important in Multiple Joint Osteoarthritis? A Multimodal Investigation in Humans and Pet Dogs

The Gut Health in Multiple Joint Osteoarthritis (MJOA) Study leverages data from parallel community-based cohorts in humans and in pet dogs to elucidate the role of altered microbiota in MJOA. One hundred Johnston County Health Study human participants were 35 to 70 years of age at enrollment (2022-2023), self-identified as Hispanic, White, or Black, and lived in Johnston County, North Carolina. Demographic, clinical information, multiple joint radiographs, and stool samples for microbiome profiling by 16S rRNA gene sequencing were obtained from all participants. Similar data were collected from an independent group of pet dogs (N=115) from the local community, at the North Carolina State University (NCSU) College of Veterinary Medicine. The central hypothesis of the study is that intestinal permeability, with or without dysbiosis, is a major driver in the development and worsening of MJOA.]]>
Human participantsInclusion criteria: Able to fast on test day; not taking antibiotics or probiotics (or able to hold these) Not diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, or an inflammatory arthritisNo poorly controlled health problems that would limit participation No history of fecal microbiota transplantation Dog participants Eligibility: At least 5 years old, weight ≥ 5kg. Exclusion criteria: Any contraindication for undergoing sedation, neurological problems that significantly affect mobility, or any history of aggressive behavior.]]>