Ankylosing Spondylitis also known as Bechterew’s disease, Morbus Bechterew, Marie-Strümpell disease, and Marie’s disease, is a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints, leading to pain and stiffness. For researchers studying this condition, access to high-quality biospecimens is crucial. Central BioHub, an online marketplace for human biospecimens, offers serum and plasma samples tested for Ankylosing Spondylitis using advanced methods such as Chemiluminescence Immuno Assay (CLIA), Enzyme Immuno Assay (EIA), and Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA).
Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis: Symptoms and Treatment
Ankylosing Spondylitis is a type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine, although other joints can also be involved. It causes inflammation of the spinal joints (vertebrae), which can lead to severe, chronic pain and discomfort. In some cases, the inflammation can lead to ankylosis, a condition in which the bones of the spine fuse together.
The symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis typically begin with persistent pain and stiffness in the lower back, especially in the morning and after periods of inactivity. As the disease progresses, it can lead to a reduced range of motion in the spine, which may result in a hunched-forward posture. Pain and swelling can also occur in other parts of the body, such as the shoulders, knees, and ankles. Additionally, this disease can cause eye inflammation, known as uveitis, which leads to pain, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision.
While there is no cure, treatments aim to relieve symptoms and prevent or delay complications and spinal deformity. Medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), are often prescribed to reduce inflammation and pain. Biological medications, including TNF blockers and IL-17 inhibitors, target specific pathways in the inflammatory process and are used for more severe cases. Physical therapy is also a crucial component of treatment, with exercises designed to improve posture, flexibility, and strength. In severe cases, surgical interventions might be necessary to correct deformities or replace damaged joints.
Role of Ankylosing Spondylitis Samples in Research
Research into Ankylosing Spondylitis is essential to understanding the disease mechanisms, developing new treatments, and improving diagnostic methods. Central BioHub’s serum and plasma samples, provide researchers with high-quality biospecimens crucial for various aspects of Ankylosing Spondylitis research.
By analyzing these samples, researchers can identify new therapeutic targets, which can lead to the development of more effective treatments. Additionally, serum and plasma samples are instrumental in biomarker discovery. By identifying biomarkers, scientists can develop better diagnostic tools for early detection and monitoring of the disease, ultimately leading to personalized treatment plans that improve patient outcomes.
Streamlined Access to Ankylosing Spondylitis Samples
Central BioHub’s marketplace is designed to simplify the process of obtaining high-quality biospecimens, making it easier for researchers to access the samples they need. The enhanced search capabilities and advanced filtering options available on the platform ensure that researchers can quickly and accurately find the exact samples they require, maximizing their research efficiency.
Researchers can refine their searches based on specific criteria such as the type of assay used, donor health status, and sample matrix (serum or plasma). Additionally, with a streamlined procurement process, researchers can obtain the samples they need in as little as 10-14 business days. This rapid turnaround significantly reduces the traditionally lengthy and complex process of biospecimens procurement.