The scope and the objective of the study is to evaluate the role of the gut microbiome in patients with AS and to compare the composition of the gut microbiota in AS and healthy human controls. To achieve this objective, the following 4 specific aims are proposed:
- Evaluate contribution of the microbiome in AS patients, w/wo treatment with Sulfasalazine;
- Determine the link between AS progression and intestinal microbiota;
- Compare gut microbiota profile in SA with healthy human controls;
- Determine gut microbiome risk status in AS.