While many studies examine Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), little is known about its progression to high-risk nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in PsA patients. Shared disease mechanisms may explain the increased severity in PsA. This study involves two visits from PsA patients with NAFLD and active disease signs (e.g., swollen joint, enthesitis, or psoriatic plaque). It aims to assess the impact of biological therapies on liver disorders, joints, and skin in PsA patients.
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), ranging from benign steatosis to severe nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), is increasingly common and linked to cirrhosis. Patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) are at higher risk for NAFLD and NASH, partly due to methotrexate (MTX) use, which is associated with hepatotoxicity. Key cytokines involved in PsA, such as TNF, IL-17, and IL-23, may also contribute to NAFLD progression. The proposed study aims to explore shared pathogenic pathways in NAFLD and PsA by evaluating the role of IL-17/23 through imaging, metabolomics, and synovial biopsies. Ultrasound-guided synovial biopsy, a safe and effective method, will be used to obtain tissue samples, enabling the identification of new molecular signatures and therapeutic targets to improve treatment of joint diseases.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NA
Purpose
BASIC_SCIENCE
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
20
This is a longitudinal study consisting of a two-time visit by psoriatic arthritis patients. The aim of the study is to determine the effect of biological therapies in liver disorders in patients with psoriatic arthritis.
University of California, San Diego
San Diego, California, United States
RECRUITINGChange in NAFLD severity
Defined by MRI-PDFF responders (relative change in liver fat ≥30%) vs non-responders (relative change in liver fat \<30%) at Week 24.
Time frame: 24 weeks
Change from baseline in skin psoriasis severity
Defined by PASI90 (Psoriasis Area and Severity Index) response in patients with plaque psoriasis at baseline
Time frame: 24 weeks
Change in joint arthritis
Defined by change of 7.25 of DAPSA (Disease activity in Psoriatic Arthritis) from baseline in patients with at least 1 swollen joint at baseline.
Time frame: 24 weeks
Change in ALT Levels
Defined by at least 17 U/L in patients with elevated ALT at baseline (defined as ≥30 U/L).
Time frame: 24 weeks
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