Current Methods in Synovial Fluid Microbiota Characterization: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Evidence suggests that a cross-talk between the gut microbiota and joint health exists in a paradigm known as the gut-joint axis. Recent studies have also reported the presence of microorganisms potentially involved in the pathogenesis and progression of arthritis in synovial joints, previously believed to be sterile. This systematic review describes in detail the methodologies employed to characterize the microbiota in human synovial fluid (SF). A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science up to 5 February 2025. Nine studies aimed to characterize the SF microbiome using next-generation sequencing or polymerase chain reaction. Eight studies detected bacterial DNA in SF. However, significant heterogeneity and incomplete reporting in methodologies, including sample collection and preparation, contamination management, DNA extraction and amplification, sequencing technology, targeted 16S rRNA or ITS regions, and bioinformatics processing, limit the comparability and significance of findings. Given the potential implications for understanding arthritis mechanisms and developing targeted treatments, a standardized methodological and reporting approach in SF microbiota characterization is needed to enhance the reproducibility and the relevance of results.

Keywords: NGS; OA; microbiome; microbiota; next generation sequencing; osteoarthritis; synovia; synovial fluid.

Figure 1

PRISMA 2020 flow diagram summarizing the study selection process [23].