Spondyloarthritis Research Consortium of Canada (SPARCC)

Principal Investigators (left to right):
Dr. Proton Rahman - Memorial University

Dr. Walter Maksymowych - University of Alberta

Dr. Robert Inman - University of Toronto

Dr. Dafna Gladman - University of Toronto

Award: In February 2006, The Arthritis Society announced a $2.5 million grant over 5 years to SPARCC to research underlying causes of and treatments for Ankylosing Spondylitis and Psoriatic Arthritis.

Project Details:
The current initiative focuses on a major form of arthritis which until recently has been under-recognized and under-studied in Canada. Spondyloarthritis (SpA), of which the major clinical subsets are ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis, has a significant prevalence and high burden of illness in the Canadian population, approximately 1 in 100; it is characterized by chronic inflammation of the spine and is frequently accompanied by arthritis in a number of other joints.

The present study proposes a national research program which extends from genetics through to clinical epidemiology. The studies seek to address the biological basis of these types of arthritis and the impact of the disease on individuals and society, and will do so through a multidisciplinary approach which draws expertise across the spectrum of health research. The primary goal of the research program is designed to improve both the diagnosis and management of Canadians with SpA. With the major advances in new treatments for arthritis in the past 5 years, we are optimistic that we can achieve better results in quality of life and function for these patients.

Investigators on this team have already been involved in breakthrough research pioneering the use of MRI for arthritis, in genetic discovery, and in the use of ground-breaking biological therapies for patients with inflammatory arthritis. We plan to adopt a new interactive model of research in which patients become active participants in the design and execution of the research plan. Our aim is to set a new benchmark for research into chronic diseases in Canada.
This project will include an assessment of SpA patients from across Canada and will help the team develop a better understanding of the genetic basis of expressions of the disease, juvenile aspects of SpA, regional and cultural differences and how it impacts native Canadians. From this data we will be better able to predict, and therefore manage, treatment programs including drug therapies.The research will also evaluate the significance of early diagnoses and treatment.
Because SpA involves the spine and is often slow to develop, and takes patients an average of eight years to receive a proper diagnosis.