Leaky gut and autoimmune diseases

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In summary: They are trying to sell their product. In summary, this article discusses how impaired intestinal barrier function may play a role in the development of autoimmune diseases. Together with the gut-associated lymphoid tissue and the neuroendocrine network, the intestinal epithelial barrier controls the equilibrium between tolerance and immunity to non-self antigens. Zonulin is the only physiologic modulator of intercellular tight junctions described so far that is involved in trafficking of macromolecules and, therefore, in tolerance/immune response balance. When the zonulin pathway is deregulation in genetically susceptible individuals, autoimmune disorders can occur.
  • #1
HiILikeMath
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This is looking to fit quite well with the hygiene hypothesis of autoimmunity, and the implications are ridiculously enormous. What do you think?

Abstract - Autoimmune diseases are characterized by tissue
damage and loss of function due to an immune response that is
directed against specific organs. This review is focused on the
role of impaired intestinal barrier function on autoimmune
pathogenesis. Together with the gut-associated lymphoid
tissue and the neuroendocrine network, the intestinal epithelial
barrier, with its intercellular tight junctions, controls the
equilibrium between tolerance and immunity to non-self
antigens. Zonulin is the only physiologic modulator of
intercellular tight junctions described so far that is involved
in trafficking of macromolecules and, therefore, in tolerance/
immune response balance. When the zonulin pathway is
deregulated in genetically susceptible individuals, autoimmune disorders can occur. This new paradigm subverts
traditional theories underlying the development of these
diseases and suggests that these processes can be arrested if
the interplay between genes and environmental triggers is
prevented by re-establishing the zonulin-dependent intestinal
barrier function. Both animal models and recent clinical
evidence support this new paradigm and provide the rationale
for innovative approaches to prevent and treat autoimmune
diseases.

http://www.celiaccenter.org/documents/publications/Leaky%20gut%20and%20autoimmune%20diseases,%20Clinical%20Reviews%20in%20Allergy%20&%20Immunology,%20November%202011.pdf
 
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  • #2
These types of papers are usually published in journals that specialize in reviews. Reviews are papers that summarize research and try to make sense of it.

The folks interested celiac disease and Type I diabetes research have known about zonulin controlling the gut "sieve" size for a while now. They are starting to run with it.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16644703.

Celiac patients have increased levels of zonulin in their gut, for example, compared with non-celiac controls.

This paper is a synthesis piece. They are taking research from seveeal areas and trying to synthesize an overall viewpoint. This is analogous to what the Physics community is trying to do with the many proposed models to bring all of Physics together. Think of the paper as proposing a model, one that can and should be tested extensively.

Here is another paper like your link:
http://physrev.physiology.org/content/91/1/151.long

It has a nice review of literature and a good explanation of what is currently known.
But you will notice the word "cancer" in the title. So again this is a synthesis piece. And is speculative.

We need articles like these. They have a useful function. But we do not have to buy what they are selling.
 

What is leaky gut?

Leaky gut, also known as intestinal permeability, is a condition where the lining of the digestive tract becomes more permeable than it should be. This allows toxins, bacteria, and undigested food particles to leak into the bloodstream, triggering an immune response.

What is the link between leaky gut and autoimmune diseases?

Leaky gut has been linked to autoimmune diseases because the undigested particles that enter the bloodstream can trigger an immune response, leading to chronic inflammation. This chronic inflammation can then contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases.

What are some symptoms of leaky gut?

The symptoms of leaky gut can vary, but some common ones include digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and constipation, as well as fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, and food sensitivities. However, these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it's important to get a proper diagnosis from a healthcare professional.

Can leaky gut be treated?

Yes, leaky gut can be treated through dietary changes, stress management, and targeted supplementation. A diet that eliminates trigger foods and focuses on healing the gut can help reduce inflammation and repair the lining of the digestive tract. Managing stress levels and incorporating probiotics can also be beneficial.

Is there a definitive test for leaky gut?

Currently, there is no definitive test for leaky gut. Some healthcare professionals use a test called the lactulose-mannitol test, which measures the absorption of sugars in the small intestine. However, this test is not widely accepted and there is still ongoing research in this area.

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