Researchers from the European University of the Atlantic (UNEATLANTICO), including Irma Dominguez, Sandra Sumalla and Maria Elexpuru, are collaborating on a study that analyzes the connection between nutrition and rheumatoid arthritis with the help of omics technology.
In light of recent scientific advances, the use of “omics” technologies has grown exponentially, both in the scientific community and in public health. Technologies such as genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics and microbiomics offer valuable insights into the complicated relationship between diet, genetic makeup and the molecular mechanisms underlying health and disease.
On the other hand, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a complex autoimmune disease characterized by a persistent systemic inflammatory response. It affects millions of people worldwide and can cause joint pain, stiffness and deformity. While the cause of RA is still unknown, recent research suggests that both genetic and environmental factors, including dietary patterns, play an important role in its development and progression.
From a holistic approach that recognizes, the study aimed to summarize the latest research findings on the influence of diet and nutrient patterns on the pathogenesis of RA, using a nutrigenomic approach.
The impact of nutritional factors
Research shows that certain nutrients and dietary patterns can increase or decrease the risk of developing RA. Through genomics and transcriptomics, specific genetic variants associated with increased susceptibility to RA in response to certain dietary factors were identified. These findings highlight the importance of personalized nutrition interventions in the management and prevention of RA.
Proteomics and metabolomics have shed light on the molecular mechanisms underlying RA pathogenesis. These omics approaches reveal altered protein expression levels and metabolite profiles in RA patients, indicating the possible involvement of specific dietary components in the progression of the condition.
The gut microbiome, consisting of trillions of microorganisms inhabiting the digestive system, has become a key player in the interaction between diet and RA. Studies using microbiomic techniques have demonstrated significant differences in the composition of the gut microbiota between RA patients and healthy individuals. Microbial imbalances caused by dietary factors can trigger immunoinflammatory responses that lead to the development and exacerbation of RA.
Opportunities and challenges in omics technology.
The integration of omics technologies into nutritional research has opened up new opportunities to understand the complex relationship between diet and RA. These advances offer the possibility of developing personalized dietary recommendations based on individual genomic profile and gut microbiota composition. Precision nutrition has great potential to improve RA management outcomes by targeting specific dietary interventions based on each individual’s unique omics profile.
However, along with these opportunities come some challenges. Standardization of omics methodologies, data interpretation, and ethical issues surrounding the use of genomic information are important elements to consider. In addition, financial constraints and access to omics technologies may hinder their widespread application in nutritional research and clinical practice.
If you want to know more about this study, click here.
To read more research, consult the UNEATLANTICO repository.
The Ibero-American University Foundation (FUNIBER) promotes several study programs in the area of health and nutrition, such as the International Master’s Degree in Nutrition and Dietetics and the Master’s Degree in Nutrition and Food Biotechnology.