Surreal illustration of the interconnectedness of the microbiome and cellular therapies.

Decoding Autoimmune Mysteries: Can Gut Bacteria and Stem Cells Hold the Key to SLE and Arthritis?

Jordan Keane in Health & Wellness November 2025 • 5 min read.

"Groundbreaking research explores the interplay of oral microbiome, genetics, and stem cell therapies in managing systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and related autoimmune conditions."

Autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis, present a complex puzzle to medical science. These conditions, characterized by the immune system mistakenly attacking the body's own tissues, affect millions worldwide and often involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and microbial factors. Recent research is beginning to unravel these intricate connections, offering new hope for more targeted and effective therapies.

Two compelling studies presented at a recent rheumatology conference shed light on critical aspects of autoimmune disease. The first delves into the oral microbiome of patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS), an autoimmune disorder often associated with dry eyes and mouth. The second explores the therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) in a murine model of SLE, seeking to optimize treatment strategies for this challenging condition.

By examining these studies, we gain insight into how imbalances in microbial communities and innovative cell-based therapies might reshape our approach to diagnosing, treating, and ultimately managing autoimmune diseases. As research continues to evolve, the promise of personalized medicine and more effective interventions comes closer to realization.

The Gut-Autoimmune Connection: Unmasking the Role of Oral Bacteria in Sjögren's Syndrome

Surreal illustration of the interconnectedness of the microbiome and cellular therapies.

Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is a chronic autoimmune disease primarily affecting the moisture-producing glands, leading to symptoms such as dry eyes and dry mouth. While the exact cause of pSS remains elusive, genetic predisposition, environmental triggers, and immune system dysregulation are believed to play significant roles. Recent research has increasingly focused on the microbiome—the community of microorganisms residing in the body—as a potential factor in the development and progression of autoimmune diseases.

A study presented at a rheumatology conference investigated the oral microbiome of pSS patients using advanced metagenomic sequencing techniques. Researchers aimed to identify specific bacterial species that might be associated with the disease. By comparing the oral microbiome of pSS patients with that of healthy controls, they sought to uncover potential microbial imbalances contributing to the pathogenesis of pSS.

Study Design: The study included adult patients diagnosed with pSS according to established American-European Consensus Group (AECG) or American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria. Healthy volunteers were included as controls. Participants with oral diseases, recent antibiotic use, or chronic alcohol and tobacco use were excluded to minimize confounding factors.
Sample Collection and Analysis: Saliva samples were collected from participants, and DNA was extracted for metagenomic sequencing. This technique allows researchers to identify and quantify the various bacterial species present in the samples. The sequencing data was then analyzed to compare the microbial composition of pSS patients and healthy controls.
Key Findings: The study revealed that the oral microbiome of pSS patients differed significantly from that of healthy controls. Several bacterial species were found to be enriched in pSS patients, including Capnocytophaga, Dialister, Fusobacterium, Helicobacter, Streptococcus, and Veilonella. Conversely, a paucity of Pseudomonas species was noted in pSS patients compared to controls.

These findings suggest that specific bacterial species may play a role in the development and progression of pSS. For example, Capnocytophaga, which was found to be enriched in pSS patients, has previously been associated with the pathogenesis and T cell activation in pSS. Understanding the specific mechanisms by which these bacteria contribute to the disease could pave the way for targeted therapies aimed at modulating the oral microbiome and reducing inflammation in pSS patients.

Future Directions: Harnessing the Power of Research for Autoimmune Care

As research continues to unravel the complex interplay of genetics, the microbiome, and immune system dysregulation in autoimmune diseases, the potential for personalized and targeted therapies grows. By understanding the specific microbial imbalances and immune mechanisms involved in diseases like pSS and SLE, scientists and clinicians can work towards developing more effective strategies for managing these conditions and improving the lives of those affected.

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Everything You Need To Know

What role does the oral microbiome play in Primary Sjögren's Syndrome (pSS)?

Research indicates that imbalances in the oral microbiome might contribute to the development and progression of Primary Sjögren's Syndrome (pSS). Studies comparing the oral microbiome of pSS patients with healthy individuals have identified specific bacterial species, such as Capnocytophaga, Dialister, Fusobacterium, Helicobacter, Streptococcus, and Veilonella, that are enriched in pSS patients. Conversely, a paucity of Pseudomonas species was noted in pSS patients compared to controls. Understanding the specific mechanisms by which these bacteria influence the immune system and salivary gland function could lead to targeted therapies aimed at modulating the oral microbiome to alleviate pSS symptoms.

How are mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) being explored as a treatment for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)?

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are under investigation for their therapeutic potential in managing Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). Research involves studying how MSCs can modulate the immune system to reduce the autoimmune response that characterizes SLE. While the specifics of MSCs are not detailed, the research aims to optimize treatment strategies for SLE. This approach reflects a broader effort to harness cell-based therapies to address the underlying immune dysregulation in autoimmune diseases.

What were the key findings regarding the oral microbiome in patients with Primary Sjögren's Syndrome (pSS) compared to healthy individuals?

The oral microbiome of Primary Sjögren's Syndrome (pSS) patients differs significantly from that of healthy controls. Several bacterial species, including Capnocytophaga, Dialister, Fusobacterium, Helicobacter, Streptococcus, and Veilonella, were found to be enriched in pSS patients. Conversely, a paucity of Pseudomonas species was noted in pSS patients compared to controls. These imbalances suggest that specific bacterial species may play a role in the development and progression of pSS, potentially influencing immune responses and inflammation.

What exclusion criteria were used in the study investigating the oral microbiome of Primary Sjögren's Syndrome (pSS) patients, and why were these criteria important?

The study excluded participants with oral diseases, recent antibiotic use, or chronic alcohol and tobacco use. These exclusion criteria were implemented to minimize confounding factors that could affect the composition of the oral microbiome. Oral diseases might independently alter the microbial environment, recent antibiotic use can disrupt the balance of bacterial species, and chronic alcohol and tobacco use can influence immune responses and microbial populations. By excluding these factors, researchers aimed to isolate the specific microbial signatures associated with Primary Sjögren's Syndrome (pSS).

If imbalances in the oral microbiome are linked to Primary Sjögren's Syndrome (pSS), what are the potential implications for managing other autoimmune diseases, such as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis?

If imbalances in the oral microbiome contribute to Primary Sjögren's Syndrome (pSS), this suggests that the microbiome could be a significant factor in other autoimmune diseases like Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis. The oral or gut microbiome could influence systemic inflammation and immune dysregulation, potentially triggering or exacerbating autoimmune responses. This understanding opens avenues for developing targeted therapies, such as prebiotics, probiotics, or fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), to modulate the microbiome and alleviate symptoms in various autoimmune conditions. Further research is needed to fully elucidate the specific microbial profiles and mechanisms involved in each disease.