Normal intestinal microbiota in aetiopathogenesis of rheumatoid arthrits
There has been much theory in the past about an infectious etiology for RA and this article further supports the idea that an improper response to bacteria may be responsible for the onset of RA. Remember that the gut has the ability to regulate the entire immune system via the GALT (gut activated lymphoid tissue). If there is something in the GI tract that the GALT does not like, it can send a signal out to the rest of the immune system to up-regulate, thereby opening up a Pandora’s box of potential autoimmune problems.
Ann Rheum Dis — Abstracts: Toivanen 62 (9): 807