# Skin Microbiome Profiling in Patients with Primary Sjögren Disease Compared to Healthy Individuals

## TL;DR

This study compares the skin microbiomes of people with Sjögren disease to healthy individuals, finding significant differences that may help explain the disease's causes.

## Contribution

The study identifies specific changes in the skin microbiome associated with Sjögren disease, suggesting potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets.

## Key findings

- SjD patients showed a significant depletion of Cutibacterium compared to healthy controls.
- Microbial diversity was markedly reduced in patients with Sjögren disease.
- Functional analysis indicated downregulation of pathways related to microbial homeostasis in SjD.

## Abstract

Primary Sjögren disease (SjD) is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation of exocrine glands, most commonly leading to dry mouth and dry eyes. Although the etiology of SjD remains unclear, emerging evidence suggests that the microbiome modulates immune homeostasis. This study aimed to compare the skin microbiomes of SjD patients with those of healthy controls (HCs) using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Taxonomic composition, alpha and beta diversity, and predicted functional profiles were evaluated. We observed a significant depletion of Cutibacterium and a marked reduction in microbial diversity in SjD patients. Beta diversity analyses revealed distinct clustering among groups. Functional prediction suggested the downregulation of metabolic pathways associated with microbial homeostasis. Our findings propose that alterations in the skin microbiota may contribute to SjD pathogenesis and serve as potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets.