Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

AS is a common rheumatic condition characterized by inflammation and new bone formation. The pathogenesis of AS is likely multifactorial and has not been fully elucidated to date. A major genetic role has been demonstrated. The strongest genetic association is with HLA B27. Numerous other associated genetic polymorphisms have been identified, including those affecting the type 17 immune pathway, although the precise link between genetics and pathogenesis remains unexplained. Several immunological alterations, together with recent therapeutic advances, support a central role for IL-23- and IL-17-producing immune cells in disease pathogenesis. Recently, perturbations of gut microbiota of AS patients have further catalysed research and offer potential for future therapeutic intervention. In this review we outline the genetic basis of AS and describe the current hypotheses for disease pathogenesis. We synthesize recent experimental research data and clinical studies to support a central role for the type 17/23 immune axis in AS.

Original publication

DOI

10.1093/rheumatology/key001

Type

Journal article

Journal

Rheumatology (Oxford)

Publication Date

01/08/2018

Volume

57

Pages

vi4 - vi9

Keywords

Gastrointestinal Microbiome, Genetic Predisposition to Disease, HLA-B27 Antigen, Humans, Interleukin-17, Interleukin-23, Polymorphism, Genetic, Spondylitis, Ankylosing