Tag: tight junctions

Targeting Zonulin and Intestinal Epithelial Barrier Function to Prevent Onset of Arthritis

This 2020 study elucidates the role of zonulin, a modulator of intestinal tight junctions, in the progression from autoimmunity to inflammatory arthritis. Elevated serum zonulin levels were observed in both rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and individuals at risk, correlating with increased intestinal permeability and decreased expression of tight junction proteins

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Dietary Carbohydrates and Lipids in the Pathogenesis of Leaky Gut Syndrome: An Overview

This 2020 review examines how dietary carbohydrates and lipids influence intestinal permeability associated with leaky gut syndrome (LGS). High fructose intake is linked to tight junction dysfunction and increased permeability, potentially leading to dysbiosis. Short-chain fatty acids like butyrate may enhance barrier integrity, while the effects of long-chain fatty acids,

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Leaky Gut and Autoimmunity: An Intricate Balance in Individuals Health and the Diseased State

This 2020 review explores the connection between increased intestinal permeability (“leaky gut”) and autoimmune diseases. It discusses how disruptions in tight junctions of the intestinal epithelium allow translocation of microbes and antigens, triggering immune responses that may lead to autoimmunity. Factors such as diet, stress, infections, and medications can contribute

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The Zonulin-transgenic mouse displays behavioral alterations ameliorated via depletion of the gut microbiota

This study using the Zonulin-transgenic mouse (Ztm) model explores the impact of increased gut permeability and microbiota dysbiosis on brain function and behavior. Ztm mice exhibited sex-dependent behavioral abnormalities, altered blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity, and increased brain inflammation. Antibiotic-induced depletion of the gut microbiota in these mice resulted in reduced

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Zonulin as a Potential Therapeutic Target in Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis Disorders: Encouraging Results and Emerging Questions

This review discusses zonulin, a protein that regulates tight junctions and modulates the permeability of both the intestinal and blood-brain barriers. It highlights how dysregulation of zonulin, triggered by microbial components, may contribute to neurological and gastrointestinal disorders. The review also explores potential therapeutic interventions targeting the zonulin pathway, particularly

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Glutamine and arginine improve permeability and tight junction protein expression in methotrexate-treated Caco-2 cells

This in vitro study explored the effects of glutamine and arginine on intestinal barrier function in Caco-2 cells treated with methotrexate (MTX), a chemotherapy agent that induces intestinal damage. Glutamine, arginine, and a few other amino acids were shown to restore the intestinal barrier integrity, as evidenced by improved transepithelial

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Glutamine and intestinal barrier function

The 2014 article titled “Glutamine and intestinal barrier function” (PMID: 24965526) reviews the vital role of glutamine in maintaining intestinal barrier integrity. Glutamine is shown to promote enterocyte proliferation, regulate the expression and assembly of tight junction proteins, and support overall mucosal health. These functions are particularly critical under stress

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Glutamine and the regulation of intestinal permeability: from bench to bedside

The 2017 review article “Glutamine and the Regulation of Intestinal Permeability: From Bench to Bedside” (PMID: 27749689) highlights glutamine’s essential role in preserving and regulating intestinal barrier function. The review outlines how glutamine supports enterocyte proliferation, modulates tight junction protein expression, and protects mucosal integrity. It draws on both animal

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Glutamine Restores Tight Junction Protein Claudin-1 Expression in Colonic Mucosa of Patients With Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome

The 2016 observational study titled “Glutamine Restores Tight Junction Protein Claudin-1 Expression in Colonic Mucosa of Patients With Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome” (PMID: 25972430) examined the effect of glutamine on tight junction protein expression in IBS-D patients. Using colonic biopsy specimens from 12 patients, researchers incubated tissues with glutamine at

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