Serum Biomarkers Linked With IBD-Associated axSpA

Several recently identified biomarkers show potential for the diagnosis and monitoring of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)-associated axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), according to an article published in the journal Autoimmunity Reviews.

“Genetically, the significance of the HLA-B27 antigen is notably diminished in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) associated with IBD, but is heightened in concurrent sacroiliitis,” wrote authors from Charles University Institute of Rheumatology in Prague, Czech Republic. “Similarly, certain polymorphisms of endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidase appear to be involved.”

Another genetic biomarker is variant NOD2/CARD15 polymorphism, which appears to be related to the risk of subclinical intestinal inflammation in patients with AS.

Meanwhile, consistent biomarkers of disease activity include C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate. In addition to reflecting disease activity, CRP can also predict disease progression and provide insight into the effect of anti-inflammatory therapy, the article explained. Fecal calprotectin levels show value for detecting intestinal inflammation in patients with axSpA, although serum calprotectin’s relationship with IBD remains debated.

Biomarkers related to tissue remodeling, while not completely indicating spinal structural progression, may offer predictive value for the outcome, the article noted. Candidate indicators of structural changes in patients with spondyloarthritis include matrix metalloproteinase-3, vascular endothelial growth factor, tenascin C, and CD74 IgG.

“In conclusion, there are several candidate biomarkers for axSpA associated with IBD. However, despite extensive analysis, this topic remains the subject of ongoing research,” the authors reported.

Reference

Ondrejčáková L, Gregová M, Bubová K, Šenolt L, Pavelka K. Serum biomarkers and their relationship to axial spondyloarthritis associated with inflammatory bowel diseases. Autoimmun Rev. 2024;23(3):103512. doi:10.1016/j.autrev.2023.103512