Bayram Farisogullari MD, Rheumatologist and Clinical Research Fellow at University College London is investigating the impact of iron overload and genetic mutations on joint disease in haemochromatosis.

Entitled, the ‘Iron Joint Project,’ Farisogullari’s study will investigate the role of iron overload in joint disease, and whether ultrasound can differentiate between haemochromatosis arthropathy (joint disease) from other arthropathy conditions.

The study will compare a group of patients with haemochromatosis arthropathy and who have iron overload (group 1), to a group of patients with haemochromatosis arthropathy but no iron overload (group 2). 

        Bayram Farisogullari, MD, Rheumatologist and Clinical Research Fellow at University College London (UCL)

1. What are your main aims with the project?

‘Our primary objective is to investigate the role of iron overload in joint disease...if joint disease in group 2 closely resembles that in group 1, this may suggest that iron plays a minimal role in joint disease,' Bayram explains.

'We will evaluate the Haemochromatosis Arthropathy Inception Cohort, established through a EULAR (European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology) initiative to develop classification criteria for haemochromatosis arthropathy, set to be published in 2025.' 

2. Why did you decide to work on GH?

‘The mechanisms underlying joint involvement in haemochromatosis arthropathy and its long-term impact…remain poorly understood...it is unclear whether joint involvement is driven by iron accumulation, specific genetic mutations, or more complex mechanisms. The development of effective treatments remains an unmet need.'

Bayram, a recipient of the Fernau Medical Research Award, explains that the project will increase understanding of genetic haemochromatosis and haemochromatosis arthropathy. ‘We will actively disseminate our findings to raise awareness and enhance understanding of the condition among clinicians, scientists and the public.’

Speaking on his collaboration with HUK, Bayram says, ‘collaborating with Haemochromatosis UK has been an invaluable experience, providing both essential funding and unwavering support throughout my research journey.’

3. Why is this research important for people with GH?

‘This partnership [with HUK] has reinforced the importance of patient-centred research to me, and Haemochromatosis UK’s commitment to raising awareness and driving research will not only enrich my work but also ensure that findings are both scientifically rigorous and directly relevant to those affected by haemochromatosis.’

‘Our research will provide new insights into the pathophysiology of haemochromatosis arthropathy, potentially guiding future studies aimed at developing targeted therapies...educational materials will raise awareness of haemochromatosis arthropathy and the importance of early screening.’

'We aim to empower individuals affected and offer ongoing support with practical recommendations to improve [their] quality of life.’

4. Who else might benefit from the findings of this study?

‘We anticipate that our findings on the utility of ultrasound in distinguishing haemochromatosis arthropathy from mimicking conditions will lead to the integration of this imaging technique in [other] diagnosis and disease management, ensuring a lasting impact on clinical practices.’

'The data generated by this project will have long-lasting value for researchers studying haemochromatosis and haemochromatosis arthropathy.'

The findings of the study are expected to be published by the end of 2025. We wish you the best of luck in your research, Bayram!