The immune system is influenced by the commensal microbes that live in the gut and on the skin. This study aims to characterize the microbiota of subjects with autoimmune disease in order to determine whether certain microbial species may cause or worsen immune-mediated diseases
This is a combination of a defined pilot microbiome study as well as exploratory mechanistic research with candidate commensals identified based on known structures accessible in public databases. In the observational prospective two-center study, subjects will be followed for 8 weeks. The study will consist of a total of 3 study visits (0, 4 and 8 weeks). Screening and baseline visits (week 0) will take place at the same time. A study window period of +/- 7 days will be allowed for follow-up study visits. The mechanistic in vitro research with subjects' blood cells and candidate commensals will typically require between 2-4 visits for sampling, but will not be limited by the frequency of visits.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
75
Sample collection of blood, stool, and buccal and skin swab samples will be collected at baseline, week 4, and week 8
Yale New Haven Hospital
New Haven, Connecticut, United States
Hospital for Special Surgery
New York, New York, United States
Difference in Commensal bacteria
Difference in disease group vs. control commensal bacteria will be compared by looking at the relative abundances of the microbiota
Time frame: 8 weeks
Immune Cross-reactivity with commensal bacteria
T and B cells in patients with immune-mediated diseases will cross react with specific microbial antigens
Time frame: 8 weeks
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