Uncover the genetic basis of Spondyloarthritis to predict disease severity and to discover new drug targets

Concept

SpA is a chronic inflammatory rheumatic disease. Reliable diagnosis and prognosis biomarkers are lacking and there is a need for new treatments. Given the strong genetic background of spondyloarthritis with more than 50 genetic factors of susceptibility already identified, use of genetic data is an appealing approach to better understand the disease pathogeny and to improve its management. The possibility to identify groups of patients with similar clinical and genetic characteristics might be the first step toward precision of medicine and help to propose more tailored treatment strategies.

Facts and Figures

Project Lead
F Costantino
Université Versailles Saint-Quentin
felicie.costantino@inserm.fr
FOREUM research grant: € 200.000
2020–2023

Meet the Team

Project Lead

F Costantino
Université Versailles Saint-Quentin
felicie.costantino@inserm.fr
M Breban
Université Versailles Saint-Quentin

Objectives

The main objective is to translate the results of genomics studies in spondyloarthritis into clinical benefits. In particular we aim at identifying genetic factors associated with disease severity and at discovering new treatment targets.

Goals/Milestones

  • Milestone 1: identification of genetic factors associated with disease severity (year 1-3)
  • Milestone 2: identification of new treatment targets through a genetics-led approach (year 2-3)
  • Milestone 3: dissemination of the findings (year 2-3)

Patient Voice

This study involves established patient cohorts and translational research. It is difficult to include patients at this stage into the design of the study. We have however approached two patient representatives who agreed to help us writing our patient information sheets and communicating our results.

Project Map