Tag Archives: Inflammatory

How Barnacle Groups Could Transform Inflammatory Bowel Disease Treatment

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Inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Bleeding Wounds

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Researchers exploring solutions for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) have drawn surprising inspiration from barnacles.

Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, typically arise when the immune system mistakenly attacks the intestines, leading to inflammation. Common symptoms encompass diarrhea, significant abdominal pain, weight loss, and gastrointestinal bleeding.

While anti-inflammatory medications like steroids can alleviate symptoms, persistent bleeding may necessitate the use of small metallic clips inserted into the intestine to address the inflammation-induced wounds. However, this procedure carries potential infection risks and may exacerbate the injury.

In pursuit of gentler alternatives, researchers have previously engineered bacteria to generate proteins beneficial for wound healing. Unfortunately, these microorganisms are generally eliminated from the intestines within days and require manual activation with pharmaceuticals, according to Bolin Anne from the Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology in China.

Recently, Ahn and colleagues have genetically modified a benign strain of Escherichia coli that produces protein fragments promoting wound healing upon detecting blood. They also engineered these bacteria to create a type of “cement protein” used by barnacles to adhere to submerged surfaces, envisioned as a “living glue” to fabricate an anti-inflammatory seal over open wounds.

To validate this novel approach, researchers induced intestinal inflammation and scarring in mice. Each subject received either a non-genetically engineered strain, the engineered Escherichia coli, or saline via an anal tube.

After ten days, mice treated with the engineered bacteria exhibited significant weight restoration, and their intestines mirrored the health of uninjured mice. No adverse side effects were recorded in any group.

Similar outcomes were noted when bacteria were administered in tablet form, suggesting potential for oral delivery in human treatment. “This presents a promising, innovative strategy,” states Shaji Sebastian at Hull University in the UK. He indicates that wound healing and inflammation in the mouse intestine is analogous to processes in humans, underscoring the necessity for human trials.

Plans are underway to test this approach in larger animals, including pigs, to assess how long the genetically modified bacteria remain viable in the gut, Ang mentioned. However, due to the necessity for extensive testing to confirm efficacy and safety compared to existing treatments, it may take up to ten years before these solutions could become available in clinics, according to Sebastian.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Common Types of Inflammatory Bowel Disease Linked to Harmful Bacteria

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Ulcerative colitis is characterized by inflammation of the colon and rectum lining.

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Toxins from bacteria in contaminated water can destroy immune cells in the colon’s lining. This implies that individuals whose intestines host these bacteria are significantly more likely to develop ulcerative colitis.

This conclusion is derived from a series of studies undertaken with both humans and animals by Shwena Chan and colleagues at Nanjing University, China. If validated, these findings could pave the way for new treatment options.

Ulcerative colitis is one of the primary types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), marked by inflammation of the colon and rectum lining. Symptoms typically fluctuate between periods of remission and flare-ups, sometimes necessitating the removal of the colon in severe cases.

The exact cause of ulcerative colitis remains unclear, although it is often regarded as an autoimmune disorder influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Chan’s team theorized that immune cells called macrophages might be integral to the condition.

Macrophages are found throughout various body tissues, performing the dual roles of clearing debris and bacteria while regulating local immune responses. They can signal additional immune cell recruitment and initiate inflammation but are equally important in mitigating it.

Researchers discovered that the density of resident macrophage cells was notably reduced in colon tissue from patients with ulcerative colitis compared to those without the condition. Further experimentation demonstrated that depleting macrophages in mice increased their susceptibility to colitis, suggesting that losing macrophage protection leads to colon damage and inflammation.

But what accounts for the lower macrophage levels in ulcerative colitis patients? By analyzing fecal samples, the research team identified a toxin named aerolysin, which significantly harms macrophages while sparing other intestinal cells.

Aerolysin is secreted by several strains of bacteria belonging to the genus Aeromonas, frequently found in freshwater and brackish environments. The strains responsible for producing aerolysin are referred to as MTB (macrophage-toxic bacteria).

In experiments where mice were deliberately infected with MTB, they exhibited greater vulnerability to colitis. Conversely, even after removing the aerolysin gene from the bacteria or neutralizing the toxin with antibodies, the mice did not show increased susceptibilities to the condition.

Ultimately, the research team tested for Aeromonas in stool samples, discovering its presence in 72% of the 79 patients with ulcerative colitis, versus only 12% among 480 individuals without the condition. This test, however, could not confirm if these bacteria were indeed MTB or if they produced aerolysin.

The findings offer a nuanced perspective. Not every case of ulcerative colitis is linked to MTB, and some individuals can carry MTB without developing the disease.

“We cannot assert that MTB is the exclusive cause of ulcerative colitis,” Zhang states. “Ongoing MTB infection can create a hypersensitive environment in the colon, yet not everyone infected will develop colitis.”

“Environmental and genetic factors certainly influence the emergence of colitis,” she adds.

According to Zhang, there are at least three potential approaches for new treatment development. One involves creating drugs to neutralize the toxin; another would focus on vaccines targeting the toxin or the bacteria producing it; while a third approach seeks to eradicate toxin-producing bacteria via phage therapy, which utilizes viruses that selectively kill specific bacteria.

“The leading theory posits that MTB toxin depletes specialized macrophages in the intestinal lining, undermining intestinal immunity,” explains Dr. Martin Kriegel from the University Hospital of Münster, Germany.

He has observed that when the team eradicated all intestinal bacteria in mice and subsequently infected them with MTB, their susceptibility to colitis diminished. This observation indicates that other yet-to-be-identified bacterial species could also play a role.

“Nonetheless, this may represent a crucial, overlooked factor in the multi-step development of ulcerative colitis, especially in China,” Kriegel suggests.

Zhang and her research group intend to conduct more extensive epidemiological studies to substantiate the association between MTB and ulcerative colitis. If MTB infection is confirmed and becomes increasingly prevalent, it may elucidate the rising incidence of IBD.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Study: Bean Consumption Enhances Metabolic and Inflammatory Indicators in Prediabetic Adults

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A 12-week study involving 72 pre-diabetic adults revealed that the consumption of either chickpeas or black beans positively influences inflammation markers in diabetic patients. Additionally, chickpea intake helps in cholesterol regulation.

Incorporating one bean daily can yield significant benefits for both heart and metabolic health. Image credit: PDPICS.

“Pre-diabetic individuals often exhibit poor lipid metabolism and persistent low-grade inflammation, both of which can lead to diseases like heart disease and type 2 diabetes.”

“Our findings indicated that levels of tofu remained constant, yet they may aid in lowering cholesterol within pre-tofu individuals while also diminishing inflammation.”

While black beans and chickpeas are widely consumed, they are frequently neglected in extensive studies examining their effects on cholesterol and inflammation in those at risk for heart disease and diabetes.

This research forms part of a broader project investigating how the intake of black beans and chickpeas influences inflammation and insulin response mediated by intestinal microbiome activity.

“Our study highlights the advantages of bean consumption for pre-diabetic adults, but these legumes are excellent choices for everyone,” stated Smith.

“These insights can help shape dietary recommendations, clinical practices, and public health initiatives aimed at preventing heart disease and diabetes.”

To enhance the practical relevance of the research, the study was conducted with participants in their natural living environments.

Participants were randomly assigned to consume either 1 cup of black beans, chickpeas, or rice (the control group) over the span of 12 weeks.

Blood samples were collected at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks to monitor cholesterol levels, inflammation, blood glucose, and glucose tolerance tests were administered at both the beginning and conclusion of the study.

The group consuming chickpeas saw a significant drop in total cholesterol, from an average of 200.4 milligrams per deciliter at the start to 185.8 milligrams per deciliter after 12 weeks.

In the black bean group, the average level of the inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6, which is a marker for inflammation, decreased from 2.57 picograms per milliliter at baseline to 1.88 picograms per milliliter after 12 weeks.

No noteworthy changes were noted in markers of glucose metabolism.

“Switching to healthier alternatives, like canned, dried, or frozen beans, is an excellent starting point for those looking to increase their bean intake,” explained the scientist.

“However, it’s crucial to watch for extra ingredients like salt and sugar based on your selections.”

“There are numerous ways to include beans in your regular diet as a budget-friendly method to enhance your overall health and lower the risk of chronic ailments,” Smith added.

“You can blend them to thicken soups, use them as salad toppings, or combine them with other grains like rice or quinoa.”

The findings were reported in a presentation on June 3rd during the Nutrition 2025 annual meeting held by the American Nutrition Association.

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Morgan M. Smith et al. Effects of chronic intake of black beans and chickpeas on metabolism and inflammatory markers in prediabetic adults. Nutrition 2025 Summary #or18-01-25

Source: www.sci.news

CRISPR gene therapy shows promise in treating severe inflammatory conditions

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New treatment cuts the gene for kallikrein, a protein involved in inflammation (illustrated)

BIOSYM TECHNOLOGIES, INC./Science Photo Library

Nine people with a rare genetic disease that causes a life-threatening inflammatory response appear to have been cured after taking part in the first trial of a new version of CRISPR-based gene therapy.

This condition, called hereditary angioedema, causes sudden swelling of tissue that affects parts of the body such as the face and throat, similar to aspects of an allergic reaction, but cannot be treated with anti-allergy drugs.

Ten people who received a one-time gene therapy administered directly into the body saw a 95 per cent reduction in the number of 'swelling attacks' in the first six months after the treatment took effect. . Since then, all but one have had no further seizures for at least a year, although one patient who received the lowest dose had one mild seizure. “This is potentially a cure,” he says Padmalal Gurugama At Cambridge University Hospital in the UK, we worked on a new approach.

Hereditary angioedema is usually caused by mutations in the gene that encodes a protein called C1 inhibitor, which is involved in suppressing inflammation, which is part of the immune response.

People with this condition may experience a sudden buildup of fluid under their skin several times a month, which is painful and can cause suffocation if it gets stuck in the throat. This attack can be caused by a virus, changes in hormone levels, or stress.

Existing drugs that can reverse attacks work by blocking another molecule involved in inflammation called kallikrein, which is made in the liver. Because people can be born without the ability to make kallikrein without adverse effects, the results suggest that it is safe to permanently block kallikrein through gene therapy, Gurgama said.

The new treatment, developed by a company called Intellia Therapeutics in Cambridge, Massachusetts, consists of genetic material designed to cut the kallikrein gene. It is encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles and taken up by liver cells. One person was treated in the UK and nine in New Zealand and the Netherlands.

An unusual feature of this therapy is that it is administered directly to humans, a method also referred to as “in vivo” delivery. “They get one infusion and that's it,” he says. julian gilmore from University College London was not involved in the study. “It's very appealing.”

So far, most other CRISPR-based gene therapies have been administered “outside the body.” This means a more complex and time-consuming procedure of taking some of a person's cells outside the body, changing the cells in a lab, and then reinjecting them.

CRISPR gene therapy is being developed for multiple genetic diseases, with the first treatments recently approved in the UK and US to help patients with two forms of genetic anemia: sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia. Ta.

The success of the latest trial is “very exciting,” Gilmore said. Development of CRISPR-based treatments for people with various liver-related conditions, called transthyretin amyloidosis. “This technology could be applied to any disease caused by a mutant protein produced exclusively in the liver, where it is desirable to knock down that protein,” he says.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Vitamin B3 Shows Promise in Treating Chronic Inflammatory Pain

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Mitochondria in specific sensory neurons may be linked to chronic pain

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A type of vitamin B3 called nicotinamide riboside reduces persistent pain in mice, suggesting it may also treat chronic pain in humans.

Inflammation (the body’s first line of defense against injury and pathogens) is a major cause of pain. However, some people experience continued pain even after the inflammation has subsided.

To understand why, Niels Eichelkamp and colleagues from Utrecht University in the Netherlands analyzed the effects of inflammation on mitochondria, the powerhouses of cells. Previous research has linked chronic pain to mitochondrial dysfunction, particularly in specialized nerve cells called sensory neurons that sense changes in the environment.

The researchers injected a substance that causes inflammation into the hind legs of 15 mice. They then measured the amount of oxygen consumed by the mitochondria in the animals’ sensory neurons, which indicates mitochondrial function. They found that a week after the inflammation had subsided, the mitochondria were consuming significantly more oxygen than before the injection, suggesting that the inflammation caused lasting changes in their function. Further experiments linked these mitochondrial changes to increased pain sensitivity in the rodents even after inflammation had subsided.

The researchers then analyzed molecular byproducts of chemical reactions called metabolites in the animals’ mitochondria. They compared these to mitochondrial metabolites in naive mice. caused inflammation. The researchers found that levels of nicotinamide riboside in the mitochondria of the mice’s sensory neurons were lower than expected after the inflammation subsided. This is a type of vitamin B3 that is important for mitochondrial function.

So, about a week after inducing inflammation in another group of 12 mice, Eichelkamp and his team gave half of them a high dose of nicotinamide riboside (500 milligrams per kilogram of body weight). administered. In comparison, her recommended daily amount of vitamin B3 for most adults is 14 milligrams and 16 milligrams. They then assessed the animals’ sensitivity to pain by measuring how quickly they removed their paws from the heat. Mice that did not receive nicotinamide riboside withdrew their paws twice as fast on average as those that did, suggesting that the supplement reduced pain.

Taken together, these findings reveal two things. One is that inflammation can impair mitochondrial function in sensory neurons, and these dysfunctions increase the risk of chronic pain even after inflammation has subsided. Second, taking nicotinamide riboside supplements may help treat this chronic pain by restoring mitochondrial function.

However, people with chronic pain should not rush to take these supplements. “[This research] Still inside the rodent. How does that translate to humans? We need to check that first,” Eikelkamp said. In clinical trials, nicotinamide riboside may be ineffective or have unintended consequences, he says.

Even if these findings apply to humans, they probably only apply to certain types of chronic pain, such as chronic inflammatory diseases, Eikelkamp says. For example, more than 20 percent A proportion of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic disease characterized by persistent joint inflammation, continue to experience pain even when inflammation levels are low. Therefore, it makes sense to test these findings in that demographic first.

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Source: www.newscientist.com