Specific Markers of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli VBNC in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Background and purpose: Recent studies suggest that the viable but nonculturable (VBNC) bacteria could cause inflammatory diseases. The aim of this study was to detect and investigate the expression of nuc and rfbE genes in blood samples of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Materials and methods: In this experimental study, 102 blood samples were collected from patients with RA and universal and specific primers were designed. Then, the genome was extracted and PCR reaction was performed to confirm the presence of universal and specific genes. Finally, RT-Real Time PCR reaction was carried out to evaluate the expression of marker genes associated with VBNC bacteria. Data were grouped and analyzed descriptively. Results: PCR showed nuc and rfbE genes in 54 (52.9%) and 12 samples, respectively, while according to RT-Real Time PCR these genes were expressed in 80% of the blood samples of patients with RA. Conclusion: In current study, the VBNC state of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were present in the blood samples of patients with RA. Accordingly, and due to the pathogenicity of VBNC bacteria, different diagnostic methods and treatments should be considered for RA.