O TYM ODCINKU
In this episode, rheumatologist and clinician-scientist Dr. Vinod Chandran discusses his research into a diagnostic test for psoriatic arthritis with NPF CSMO Dr. Guy Eakin.
Key learnings:
Early diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is critical for better outcomes. PsA is often difficult to recognize because symptoms vary widely and can resemble common age-related joint or back pain. Earlier identification and treatment can reduce joint damage, improve quality of life, lower chronic pain burden, and potentially decrease cardiovascular and mental health complications.
The heterogeneity of PsA makes developing a diagnostic test especially challenging. PsA presents differently across patients, sexes, ethnic groups, and stages of disease. Some patients develop arthritis after psoriasis, while others may develop it before or even without obvious psoriasis, making a single broadly applicable diagnostic test difficult to create.
A multi-omic approach shows promise for distinguishing PsA from psoriasis alone. Dr. Chandran's team evaluated multiple biological data sources, including gene expression, microRNAs, proteins, and metabolites. Their research identified a signature of approximately 200 markers that could differentiate patients with PsA from those with psoriasis only, demonstrating the feasibility of a biomarker-based diagnostic test.
The future of precision medicine in psoriatic disease depends on reliable biomarkers. Beyond diagnosis, biomarkers could help predict disease severity, guide treatment selection, and improve long-term outcomes by identifying the right therapy for the right patient at the right time. Achieving this will require continued collaboration, validation across diverse populations, and development of clinically practical, cost-effective tests.
Looking for more information related to his research? Read more about the NPF PsA Diagnostic Test Grant outcomes: https://www.psoriasis.org/advance/psoriatic-arthritis-diagnostic-test-grant/
This publication is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $375,000 with 100 percent funded by CDC/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by CDC/HHS, or the U.S. Government.
