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Celiac.com 12/05/2024 - Over the past five decades, the prevalence of celiac disease and gluten sensitivity has increased dramatically, leading researchers to investigate the underlying causes. While no single theory can explain the rise in gluten-related disorders, several supported by scientific research offer insights into why these conditions are becoming more common. Here are the most popular theories. 1. The Hygiene Hypothesis The hygiene hypothesis posits that modern improvements in hygiene have led to reduced exposure to pathogens, which in turn weakens the immune system’s ability to distinguish between harmful and harmless substances. This theory suggests that reduced contact with bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms early in life leaves the immune system more prone to overreaction, including triggering autoimmune diseases like celiac disease. Several studies support this hypothesis, showing a correlation between increased hygiene practices in developed nations and the rise in autoimmune disorders. For example, a 2016 study found that children raised in environments with higher exposure to microbes, such as on farms or in large families, have lower rates of autoimmune conditions, including celiac disease . The theory suggests that early immune system training helps prevent overreaction to proteins like gluten later in life. 2. Changes in Wheat Cultivation Modern agricultural practices have altered wheat's genetic composition over the last century. Through selective breeding, wheat varieties have been developed that are more resilient, produce higher yields, and contain higher levels of gluten. Some researchers propose that these genetic changes have made modern wheat more likely to trigger gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. Although no genetically modified (GMO) wheat is commercially available, modern wheat varieties do contain higher levels of gluten, especially the types of gluten proteins most harmful to those with celiac disease. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2013 compared ancient wheat varieties like einkorn with modern wheat and found that older varieties contained less of the gluten peptides that trigger immune responses in celiac disease . 3. Increased Gluten Consumption in Modern Diets Another popular theory is that people today are consuming more gluten than previous generations. The proliferation of processed and convenience foods has led to gluten being added to a wide range of products beyond bread and pasta. As gluten is often used as a thickener, stabilizer, or flavor enhancer in processed foods, people may be unknowingly consuming more gluten, which could contribute to the rise in gluten-related disorders. A 2020 review in the journal Nutrients highlighted how the increased use of gluten in processed foods has raised overall gluten consumption. The study found that the modern diet includes gluten in unexpected places, such as sauces, soups, and even supplements. This increased exposure, combined with genetic predisposition, might lead to higher rates of gluten sensitivity and celiac disease. 4. Microbiome Alterations and Gut Health The human gut microbiome, which consists of trillions of bacteria and other microorganisms, plays a key role in regulating immune function and digestion. Changes in diet, widespread use of antibiotics, and other environmental factors have disrupted the balance of the gut microbiome in many individuals. Some researchers believe this disruption contributes to the increase in autoimmune diseases like celiac disease by weakening the immune system's ability to tolerate gluten. A growing body of research connects gut health and celiac disease. A 2021 study in Frontiers in Microbiology found that individuals with celiac disease often have distinct microbiomes compared to healthy individuals, with fewer beneficial bacteria and higher levels of pathogenic strains . This altered microbiome may influence the body's immune response to gluten, increasing the risk of developing celiac disease. 5. Early Introduction of Gluten to Infants There is ongoing debate about whether the timing of gluten introduction in infancy affects the development of celiac disease. Some researchers believe that introducing gluten too early or too late during a child’s development could increase the likelihood of triggering an autoimmune response. The "window of tolerance" hypothesis suggests that introducing gluten during a specific developmental window might help the immune system develop tolerance to it. A large study known as the PreventCD project, conducted in Europe, examined how the timing of gluten introduction affected celiac disease risk in genetically predisposed children. The results, published in The New England Journal of Medicine in 2014, indicated that neither early nor delayed gluten introduction significantly affected the risk of developing celiac disease, but other studies still explore whether a small window may exist. 6. Environmental Factors and Chemical Exposure Some researchers believe that increased exposure to environmental chemicals, pesticides, and additives may contribute to the rise in autoimmune conditions, including celiac disease. Glyphosate, a common herbicide used in modern agriculture, has been speculated to contribute to intestinal permeability (also known as leaky gut), which could increase the risk of developing autoimmune diseases like celiac disease. Although this theory is more controversial, some research suggests that environmental chemicals may play a role in the development of autoimmune diseases. A 2013 paper in Interdisciplinary Toxicology argued that glyphosate's effects on gut bacteria could impair digestion and immune regulation, potentially increasing the risk of gluten sensitivity . However, further research is needed to confirm the link between glyphosate and celiac disease. Conclusion The increased prevalence of celiac disease and gluten sensitivity is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors. Theories ranging from changes in wheat cultivation and higher gluten consumption to microbiome disruption and the hygiene hypothesis offer plausible explanations for why more people are developing gluten-related disorders today. While no single theory has been definitively proven, ongoing research continues to shed light on the factors driving this rise, helping scientists and healthcare providers better understand, diagnose, and treat these conditions. As awareness grows and research advances, a deeper understanding of the relationship between gluten and autoimmune disease will help individuals manage and prevent the development of celiac disease and gluten sensitivity in future generations. Watch the video version of this article:

Celiac.com 12/03/2024 - Understanding celiac disease has advanced significantly over recent years. From novel treatments to groundbreaking insights into the immune system’s response to gluten, these research breakthroughs are paving the way for new therapies and more accurate diagnoses. Here are five recent advances you’ll want to know about if you or someone you know is affected by celiac disease. 1. Exploring the Gut-Brain Connection in Celiac Disease Scientists have long recognized the importance of the gut-brain connection, and it’s now a major focus in celiac research. Celiac disease doesn’t just affect the digestive system; it’s also linked to neurological symptoms like anxiety, depression, and brain fog. Recent studies show that inflammatory markers in the bloodstream may cross the blood-brain barrier in people with celiac disease, leading to brain inflammation. This discovery has opened the door to new ways of treating neurological symptoms in those with celiac disease. Future therapies may target inflammation in the brain, improving mental health and cognitive function for those with the condition. 2. Targeted Immune Therapies to Reduce Gluten Sensitivity While a vaccine like Nexvax2 hasn’t been successful in trials, and the immune-targeting therapy larazotide acetate has also failed in trials, another promising development in celiac research is ZED1227, an experimental drug specifically designed to inhibit the body’s inflammatory response to gluten. ZED1227 works by blocking transglutaminase 2 (TG2), an enzyme that plays a critical role in the immune reaction to gluten. By targeting TG2, ZED1227 aims to prevent the immune system from attacking the gut lining when gluten is ingested, which could significantly reduce symptoms and intestinal damage for people with celiac disease. Early clinical trials have shown that ZED1227 is both safe and effective at reducing inflammation in response to gluten exposure, even in small amounts. While it’s not a cure and doesn’t replace a gluten-free diet, ZED1227 could offer a valuable safety net for individuals at risk of accidental gluten ingestion. If further trials continue to show positive results, ZED1227 could become the first medication designed to protect against gluten-induced damage, representing a major advancement in celiac disease management. 3. Enzyme Therapy as a Gluten Defense One promising area of celiac research involves enzymes designed to break down gluten before it reaches the small intestine. Scientists are investigating various enzyme therapies that could help people with celiac disease digest gluten more effectively. These enzymes, when taken as a supplement, aim to neutralize gluten before it causes damage. Although these enzymes won’t replace a gluten-free diet, they could reduce the severity of reactions after accidental gluten exposure. Enzyme therapy is currently in clinical trials, with researchers optimistic about its potential to provide a new layer of protection for those with celiac disease. 4. New Diagnostic Tests for Earlier and More Accurate Detection Diagnosing celiac disease traditionally requires a combination of blood tests and a biopsy, but researchers are exploring non-invasive alternatives. For instance, one study focused on developing a simple breath test to detect celiac-specific markers in the gut. This new method could allow for faster and less invasive screening, helping to identify celiac disease earlier in life. Early diagnosis is crucial to avoid long-term complications, such as osteoporosis and other autoimmune disorders. As these tests become more refined, they promise to simplify the diagnosis process and make it more accessible. 5. Advances in Personalized Nutrition and Microbiome Research The unique composition of each person’s gut microbiome may affect the severity of their celiac symptoms, and recent research has uncovered connections between the gut microbiome and gluten sensitivity. Scientists are studying how different bacterial strains in the gut influence immune responses to gluten. This research could lead to personalized dietary recommendations and probiotic treatments tailored to each individual’s microbiome. By adjusting gut bacteria to support digestive health, this approach may help manage symptoms more effectively and even enhance the body’s ability to tolerate small amounts of gluten. 6. CRISPR-Modified Wheat: Gene Editing for Gluten-Free Grains In a groundbreaking approach to celiac disease, scientists are exploring the use of CRISPR gene-editing technology to develop gluten-free wheat. By targeting the specific genes responsible for gluten proteins in wheat, researchers aim to “turn off” or modify the genes that trigger the immune response in people with celiac disease. Unlike traditional gluten-free options, this modified wheat would maintain the texture and nutritional profile of regular wheat, potentially providing a much-needed alternative for baking and cooking. While still in development, CRISPR-modified wheat holds great promise for those with celiac disease, offering the possibility of enjoying wheat-based products without risking an immune reaction. Early research has shown success in reducing specific gluten proteins, and with further refinement, CRISPR-modified wheat could become a viable, naturally gluten-free option. This innovation could revolutionize food choices and significantly improve quality of life for individuals with celiac disease. Looking Ahead: Hope for the Celiac Community With these advancements, the future looks brighter for those living with celiac disease. While a strict gluten-free diet remains the primary treatment, these breakthroughs represent meaningful progress in understanding and managing the disease. From vaccines and enzyme therapies to early diagnostics and microbiome research, each of these areas holds promise for improved quality of life. As research continues, the celiac community can look forward to more personalized and effective treatments, allowing for a more balanced and less restrictive lifestyle. Until then, staying informed and connected with medical updates can empower those affected by celiac disease to make educated choices about their health. Watch the video version of this article:

Celiac.com 04/18/2024 - Human gut microbiota contains many viruses, bacteria and fungi. Escherichia coli representatives are facultative anaerobic bacteria in the colon that play a crucial role in the metabolism of lactose, vitamin synthesis and immune system modulation. E. coli forms a biofilm on the epithelial cell surface of the intestine that can be modified by diet compounds, such as gluten, xylitol, lactose and probiotics. Researchers recently examined the impact of probiotic-derived Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG strain on non-pathogenic E. coli biofilm. They also also treated mono- and multi-species biofilm with gluten, xylitol and lactose. The research team included Joanna Kwiecińska-Piróg, Karolina Chomont, Dagmara Fydrych, Stawarz Julita, Tomasz Bogiel, Jana Przekwas, and Eugenia Gospodarek-Komkowska. They arę variously affiliated with the Microbiology Department, Pharmaceutical Faculty, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, University of Nicolaus Copernicus in Toruń in Bydgoszcz, Poland; and the Clinical Microbiology Division, Antoni Jurasz University Hospital no 1 in Bydgoszcz, Poland. Probiotics May be Helpful in Rebuilding Gut Microbiota After Broad Spectrum Antibiotic Therapy The researchers used 96-well plates to obtain biofilm growth. They stained the biofilm with crystal violet. To evaluate the type of interaction in mono- and multispecies biofilm, a new formula was introduced - biofilm interaction ratio index (BIRI). To describe the impact of nutrients on biofilm formation, they calculated the biofilm formation impact ratio (BFIR). The biofilms formed by both examined species are stronger than in monocultures. All the BIRI values were above 3.0. It was found that the monospecies biofilm of L. rhamnosus is strongly inhibited by gluten (84.5%), while the monospecies biofilm of E. coli is strongly inhibited by xylitol (85.5%). The mixed biofilm is inhibited by lactose (78.8%) and gluten (90.6%). The relations between bacteria in the mixed biofilm led to changes in biofilm formation by E. coli and L. rhamnosus GG. Study Highlights: • Combining E. coli and L. rhamnosus creates a stronger biofilm than when each bacterium is cultured alone. • Adding xylitol to the diet can decrease the formation of biofilms by E. coli bacteria. • Lactose and gluten are less effective than xylitol in reducing the formation of biofilms by E. coli bacteria. The results indicate tha t probiotics might be helpful in rebuilding the gut microbiota after broad spectrum antibiotic therapy, but only if gluten and lactose are excluded from diet. Graphic Abstract Read more at: Sciencedirect.com

Celiac.com 05/29/2023 - Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten consumption. While genes and gluten play a significant role in the development of the disease, researchers have started to explore additional factors that contribute to its onset. One intriguing area of study is the gut microbiota, the vast community of microorganisms that reside in our digestive tract. Recent research has suggested that alterations in the gut microbiota may act as an additional risk factor for celiac disease. To shed light on this complex relationship, scientists have embarked on a journey to explore the biogeographic variation and functional pathways of the gut microbiota in individuals with celiac disease. One challenge researchers face is the variability in sampling sites within the digestive system. Celiac disease primarily affects the small intestine, specifically the duodenum. Therefore, understanding the microbiota along different sections of the duodenum and comparing it to fecal samples is crucial for interpreting the findings accurately and gaining mechanistic insight. Comprehensive Study Using 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing To tackle this issue, a team of scientists conducted a comprehensive study using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, a method that allows for the identification and characterization of microbial communities, and predicted gene function using advanced bioinformatics tools. The research team included Marco Constante; Josie Libertucci; Heather J. Galipeau; Jake C. Szamosi; Gaston Rueda; Pedro M. Miranda; Maria Ines Pinto-Sanchez; Carolyn M. Southward; Laura Rossi; Michelle E. Fontes; Fernando G. Chirdo; Michael G. Surette; Premysl Bercik; Alberto Caminero; and Elena F. Verdu. They are variously affiliated with the Department of Medicine, Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; and the Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Instituto de Estudios Inmunológicos y Fisiopatológicos, Universidad Nacional de La Plata-National Scientific and Technical Research Council, La Plata, Argentina. Their team collected duodenal biopsies from sections D1, D2, and D3, aspirates, and stool samples from individuals with active celiac disease, as well as healthy controls. They also assessed participants' celiac disease risk genotypes. To delve deeper into the functional impact of the microbiota, the team selected a subset of duodenal samples with similar celiac disease risk genotypes for further analysis, and used to colonize germ-free mice, enabling the study of gluten metabolism. Study Results - Certain Microbes Present in Celiacs The results of the study were intriguing. The composition and predicted function of the gut microbiota in celiac disease were found to be largely determined by the location within the intestine. In the duodenum, but not in stool samples, specific bacterial species, such as Escherichia coli (D1), Prevotella salivae (D2), and Neisseria (D3), were found to be more abundant in individuals with celiac disease compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, the researchers discovered alterations in bacterial protease and peptidase genes, indicating changes in gluten degradation pathways specific to celiac disease. Interestingly, impaired gluten degradation was observed only in mice colonized with microbiota from individuals with celiac disease, further highlighting the role of the microbiota in gluten metabolism. These findings suggest that celiac disease influences the microbial communities in distinct niches within the gut. The researchers also identified novel microbial proteolytic pathways involved in gluten detoxification, which were impaired in individuals with celiac disease but not in healthy controls carrying the celiac disease risk genotype DQ2. This suggests a potential association between these pathways and active inflammation in the duodenum. It is important to note that the study highlights the significance of sampling site as a confounding factor in microbiome research related to celiac disease. Understanding the nuances of the gut microbiota at different locations within the intestine is crucial for accurate interpretation and meaningful conclusions. Conclusions This groundbreaking research opens up new avenues for exploring the complex interplay between the gut microbiota and celiac disease. By identifying specific microbial species and functional pathways associated with the disease, scientists are gaining valuable insights into its mechanisms. Furthermore, these findings provide potential targets for future therapeutic interventions and diagnostic approaches, ultimately improving the lives of individuals living with celiac disease. As our understanding of the intricate relationship between the gut microbiota and celiac disease deepens, we move one step closer to understanding the parameters of the disease, and possibly to develop better approaches to treatment. Stay tuned for more on this and related stories. Read more at Gastroenterology

Celiac.com 03/06/2023 - We get a lot of questions about celiac disease and gluten-free-related issues. One question we've seen lately is: Is there a connection between the human gut microbiome and celiac disease? The short answer is yes. The longer answer is that research has show a number of connections between the two conditions, but we still have far more questions than answers. Here's a rundown of what we do know. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the small intestine. When individuals with celiac disease consume gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, it triggers an immune response that damages the lining of the small intestine and interferes with the absorption of nutrients. One of the key components of the gut environment is the microbiome, a complex community of microorganisms that live in the gut. Recent research has shown that the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in the development and progression of celiac disease. Studies have shown that celiac disease is associated with changes in the composition and diversity of the gut microbiome. In individuals with celiac disease, there is a decrease in beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, and an increase in pathogenic bacteria, such as Clostridium. This disruption of the gut microbiome, also known as dysbiosis, can lead to an imbalance in the gut environment, which can trigger an immune response and further damage to the small intestine. Celiac Disease Disrupts the Gut Microbiome Recent studies have shown that celiac disease not only affects the gut lining but also disrupts the balance of the gut microbiome. The gut microbiome is made up of trillions of microorganisms that reside in the gut and play a crucial role in maintaining overall health. In healthy individuals, the gut microbiome is diverse and balanced, but in celiac patients, the gut microbiome is often imbalanced, known as dysbiosis. Gluten-Free Diet Affects Gut Microbiome Dysbiosis in celiac patients can lead to a reduction in beneficial bacteria and an increase in harmful bacteria. This can cause a number of issues such as inflammation, changes in gut motility and nutrient malabsorption. Additionally, research has shown that the gut microbiome in celiac patients also changes after starting a gluten-free diet. For instance, the levels of certain beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium increase, which can help to restore balance in the gut microbiome. Gut-Brain Axis It is not entirely clear yet how the gut microbiome is affected in celiac disease, but researchers believe that the gut-brain axis, which connects the gut and the brain, plays a key role. Studies have shown that the gut microbiome can influence the brain-gut axis and may impact nociceptive behavior and brain function. There's also a connection between gut-brain axis and migraines in people with celiac disease. Connections Between Microbiome and Celiac Research We also know that Genetic Risk for Autoimmune Disease Tied to Gut Microbiome We know that Celiac Disease Onset Changes Gut Microbiota in Children Recent research shows that Gluten Does Not Change Gut Microbiome in Patients with Celiac Disease and Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity We just recently learned that Altered Gut Bacteria Linked With Long COVID-19 Symptoms We also know that, in some cases, Fecal Microbiota Transplant Restores Gut Microbiome New research tells us that interaction between the gut microbiome and micronutrients are a key to the availability of minerals and vitamins. Gut Microbiome Affects Bioavailability of Micronutrients The gut microbiome can variously influence the bioavailability of micronutrients, as well as be influenced by micronutrient supplementation, with potential implications for health, even in the long term. Although several mechanisms have been advanced, a thorough characterization of the microbiome–micronutrient bidirectional axis is of utmost importance, as it can guide the design of microbiome‐based precision intervention strategies, aimed at improving micronutrient status and overall health. Studies have shown that celiac disease is associated with changes in the composition and diversity of the gut microbiome, which can lead to an imbalance in the gut environment, known as dysbiosis. Gut microbiome imbalance can lead to a number of issues such as inflammation, changes in gut motility and nutrient malabsorption. Research has shown that the gut microbiome in celiac patients also changes in some worrisome ways after starting a gluten-free diet. Much Unknown About "Healthy" Gut Microbiome Additionally, we need a clear understanding of what constitutes a "healthy" gut microbiome in people with or without celiac disease to fully understand the implications of gut health on celiac disease. When it comes to the connection between the human gut microbiome and celiac disease, we're learning that the two conditions are connected. Some evidence suggests that the health of the gut microbiome can influence certain symptoms of celiac disease, especially headaches. However, much more research is needed before we can make any hard conclusions about the exact nature of the connections, and the implications for people with celiac disease and other auto-immune conditions.

Celiac.com 10/17/2022 - Headache is one of the main clinical symptoms and complaints of people with celiac disease, and often it manifests as migraine. The roots and origins of migraine as it relates to celiac disease are complex, and still poorly understood. The term 'dysbiosis' refers to a disruption of the microbiome that triggers an imbalance in the gut microbiota, which leads to changes in their functional composition and metabolic activities, or changes to their distribution within the gut microbiome. A team of researchers recently set out to give a narrative summary of the literature on celiac disease's neurological symptoms, particularly migraines, and to assess potential connections with dysbiosis. The research team included Hodan Qasim, Mohamed Nasr, Amad Mohammad, Mosab Hor, and Ahmed M. Baradeiya. They are variously affiliated with theDepartment of Internal Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, SAU; the Ophthalmology, Palestinian Medical Council, Ramallah, PSE; the Department of Ophthalmology, Children Retina Institute, Los Angeles, USA; the department of General Internal Medicine, Mansoura general hospital in Mansoura, Egypt; and the Research center, Fresno clinical research center, Fresno, USA. In an effort to explain the connection, researchers have proposed various mechanisms involving the gut-brain axis, including: the interaction of chronic inflammation with inflammatory and vasoactive mediators; the modulation of the intestinal immune environment of the microbiota; and a malfunction of the autonomic nervous system. The research article refers to a known gut-brain pathway that can influence neurological illnesses such as migraines. Some data suggests that gut microbiota can influence the brain-gut axis, and may impact nociceptive behavior and brain function A layer of columnar intestinal epithelial cells separates the 100 trillion bacteria present on the gut surface from the host. The key pathophysiological processes connected to migraine are thought to work partly due to the gut microbiota composition, which also plays a significant role in the gut-brain axis. Potential pathways include neurotransmitters, hormones, and inflammatory chemicals originating from the microbiome. However, further research is required to fully understand the basic specific factors which influence the process. The team's review aims to give a narrative summary of the literature on celiac disease's neurological symptoms, particularly migraines, and to assess any potential associations to dysbiosis, an imbalance in the microbiome that may be related to celiac disease. Read more at Cureus.com

Celiac.com 12/28/2018 - Beyond a few teaser studies, we don’t know enough about whether the individual micro-biome might play a role in the development of celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease. Top celiac researcher Alessio Fasano, together with colleague G. Serena, recently presented an overview of current knowledge regarding the contribution of the individual micro-biome to celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease. Their discussion includes a particular focus on how probiotics may be used as potential preventive therapy for CIDs. They are both affiliated with the Mucosal Immunology and Biology Research Center and Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children - Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA. As part of their presentation, they write that, globally, cases of chronic inflammatory diseases (CIDs) are undergoing a steep rise. This rise, together with limited effective strategies for slowing these disease explosions demands deeper knowledge of their physical mechanisms in order to reduce the adverse effects of the diseases on children. Several cross-sectional studies have shown a connection between intestinal microbial imbalance and active disease. Unfortunately, they note, these studies do not demonstrate any connection between changes in microflora as a factor in disease development, and so do not suggest any promising directions to explore for possible treatments. Fasano and Serena say that additional studies are needed to show conclusively whether intestinal dysbiosis plays a part in triggering CIDs. Furthermore, given the complexity of the microflora interaction with the host, it is necessary to design a systems-level model of interactions between the host and the development of disease by integrating micro-biome, metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, and metabolomics with either clinical or environmental data. In their overview, Fasano and Serena discuss the current knowledge regarding the contribution of the individual microbiome to celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease. Their discussion includes a particular focus on how probiotics may be used as potential preventive therapy for CIDs. The article includes a paywall, but you may find it at: Adv Exp Med Biol. 2018 Dec 20. doi: 10.1007/5584_2018_317

Celiac.com 03/08/2022 - There's been some evidence to connect celiac disease with an imbalance in gut microflora. However, researchers still don't know much about how gluten exposure in people with well-controlled celiac disease might influence microbial balance in the gut. A better understanding of this connection could help to improve our knowledge of celiac disease activity and its symptoms. To get a better idea of such a possible connection, a team of researchers recently set out to evaluate the impact of gluten exposure on the gut microbiome in patients with celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS). The research team included Nobel, Yael R. MD; Rozenberg, Felix BA; Park, Heekuk PhD; Freedberg, Daniel E. MD, MS; Blaser, Martin J. MD; Green, Peter H.R. MD; Uhlemann, Anne-Catrin MD, PhD; and Lebwohl, Benjamin MD, MS. They are variously affiliated with the Celiac Disease Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA; the Microbiome and Pathogen Genomics Collaborative Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA; the Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA; the Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA; the Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA. The team conducted a 14-day gluten challenge of 5 grams of gluten per day on nine patients with celiac disease and eight with NCGS, all of whom had been on a gluten-free diet. They then compared the results from the two groups against results from eight control subjects on a standard gluten-containing diet. The team used 16S rRNA gene and metagenomic sequencing before, during, and after the gluten challenge, to conduct fecal microbiome analysis on patient stool samples. They assessed symptoms using two 2 validated clinical scales. The results showed that patients with celiac disease and NCGS showed no significant fecal microbial changes in response to the gluten challenge. Interestingly, gut microbiome composition differed between all thee groups at baseline, and these differences continued regardless of gluten exposure. Celiac and NCGS subjects reported worse symptoms and general health in the middle of gluten challenge, and slightly better by the end. However, the symptoms and general health issues showed no consistent connections with the composition of the gut microbiome. In this study, fecal microbiome diversity remained unchanged by gluten challenge in adult subjects with celiac disease and NCGS. These results indicate that celiac disease and NCGS activity and severity may be unrelated to gut microbiome status. Since the gut microbiome is crucial to good health, it may be some comfort to people with celiac disease and NCGS that gluten exposure doesn't seem to damage the microbiome balance, and so is unlikely to worsen disease symptoms, at least in the short term. Read more in Clinical and Translational Gastroenterology: December 2021

Celiac.com 02/14/2022 - Prior studies have found links between the gut microbiome and COVID-19, along with other diseases. However, a new study by investigators at the Chinese University of Hong Kong offers the first published data specifically linking gut health to COVID's long-term effects. The research team assessed 106 patients with COVID-19 from February to August 2020, at three different hospitals, and compared their results against a group of patients recruited in 2019, who did not have COVID. Patients had mostly mild to moderate Covid severity. At 3 months, nearly ninety of the COVID patients had post–acute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS), which researchers defined as at least one persistent, otherwise unexplained symptom 4 weeks after testing negative for Covid. After six months, more than eighty patients still had PACS, with the main complaints being anxiety, fatigue, poor memory, hair loss, and difficulty sleeping. Stool sample analysis of PACS patients showed sharply lower bacteria diversity and abundance at six months, compared with with control subjects, and those without PACS. In patients with PACS, at both baseline and follow-up, nearly thirty bacteria species were reduced, while nearly fifteen were increased. Patients with COVID but not PACS showed just 25 changes to bacteria species at hospital intake, and all of those patients normalized by 6 months. The team linked patient respiratory symptoms at 6 months to higher levels of opportunistic pathogens such as Streptococcus anginosus and S. vestibularis. They also tied neuropsychiatric symptoms and fatigue to nosocomial pathogens, which are linked to opportunistic infections, such as Clostridium innocuum and Actinomyces naeslundii (P < .05). Bacteria that produce the beneficial fatty acid butyrate were substantially reduced in patients with hair loss. They also found that specific bacteria, including Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, showed the greatest inverse correlations with PACS at 6 months.. "Particular gut microbial profiles may indicate heightened susceptibility," said Dr Siew Ng, MBBS, PhD, associate director at the university's Center for Gut Microbiota Research. "Although the findings were drawn from patients with earlier strains of the COVID-19 virus, the findings still apply to new variants, including Omicron, since these pose the same problem of persistent disruption of the immune system," Ng adds. Dr Ng's group is currently carrying out trials to assess how long COVID might be prevented, and antibodies boosted, by modulating the microbiome after vaccination in high-risk people. "To our knowledge, this is the first study to show that altered gut microbiome composition is strongly associated with persistent symptoms in patients with COVID-19 up to 6 months after clearance of SARS-CoV-2 virus," said Dr Ng. Meanwhile, Eugene Chang, MD, professor of medicine at the University of Chicago, who has studied the gut microbiome and gastrointestinal disease, cautions that the study is "too preliminary" to lead to any clinical changes. Dr. Chang notes that the observations merely identify the microbes present, not their actual effects. Stay tuned for more on this and related stories about celiac disease and Covid. Read more in Medscape Medical News

Celiac.com 10/12/2020 - Researchers have recently begun to understand that gut bacteria play a critical role in keeping people healthy. They are also beginning to understand that our poop offers an excellent glimpse into our gut health. We know that the gut microbiota of children begin to change when they get celiac disease. Low levels of certain gut bacteria correspond with higher rates of celiac disease. We also know that gut microbiomes of children with a high genetic risk for type 1 diabetes are significantly different than those of children with low genetic risk. Moreover, changing gut microbiota could protect against celiac disease. However, there's much to learn about exactly which bacteria is beneficial and which bacteria is harmful, and what the best balance of bacteria may be to help optimize our health. We do understand that one bacteria strain, bifidobacterium infantis, is beneficial to gut health. To learn more, a group of researchers conducted a study to see if they could introduce an important species of good bacteria, known as bifidobacterium infantis, into the guts of babies with deficient levels. When they did so, they found that the stool pH became much more acidic, which is a more normal gut condition. This led the team to hypothesize that lower stool pH could reflect a healthier gut, with more optimal levels of beneficial microbes. To investigate their hypothesis, the team analyzed the pH of infant stool by looking at studies from 1926 to 2017. They found that infant stool pH has risen from 5.0 to 6.5 over the last hundred years or so, meaning that is has become less acidic and more basic over the years. This is a major difference, as the pH scale runs from 0 to 14.0, with 7.0 being neutral. That change could reflect a decrease in bifidobacterium, and a reduction in gut health during that time. Normally, healthy mothers pass bifidobacterium and many other strains of gut bacteria to their babies via their breast milk. The researchers think that the reduction in bifidobacterium in infants may reflect reduced gut health in mothers doing that time. According to researcher Bethany Henrick, of Evolve BioSystems, a biomedical company in Davis, California, and her co-author Jennifer Smilowitz, a nutritional biologist at the University of California, Davis, bifidobacterium is important, because it binds exclusively to human milk oligosaccharides, which are sugars found only in breast milk. Oligosaccharides provides food bifidobacterium needs to grow and reproduce. Healthy levels of bifidobacterium in the gut help to keep bad bacteria from growing in the gut. About 80% of the cells that make up our immune systems are in our guts. "There's this intimate connection between the gut microbiome and our immune system," says Henrick. If bifidobacterium levels are low, bad bacteria can flourish. Higher levels of bad gut bacteria could tax the immune system, and promote allergies and certain autoimmune diseases. Women can promote gut health by eating a diet high in fiber, such as whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. Prior studies have shown that gut bacteria is influenced by three things: How often a baby gets antibiotics, whether they are breastfed, and whether they were delivered naturally, or via cesarean section. The researchers encourage doctors and new mothers to work to promote a healthy gut microbiome in their babies by limiting antibiotics and cesarean sections, and to breastfeed, when possible. By learning more about the role of gut bacteria and a healthy gut biome in the development of celiac disease can help us to better understand the origins of the disease, as well as how we might be able to reduce it in the future. Stay tuned for more on the role of gut bacteria in celiac disease, and related news. Read more at Pediatr Res. 2019; 86(6): 749–757.

Celiac.com 12/07/2020 - A team of researchers has established the first bioinformatics method to determine and test the potential biological sensitivity of living organisms to glyphosate, the chemical in the herbicide commercially marketed as Roundup. Their research shows that glyphosate may negatively affect more than half of bacteria strains that make up the human gut microbiome. The research team included Lyydia Leinoa,Tuomas Talla, Marjo Helandera, Irma Saloniemia, Kari Saikkonen, Suvi Ruuskanena, and Pere Puigbòacd. They are variously affiliated with the Department of Biology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland, the Biodiversity Unit, University of Turku, Finland, the Nutrition and Health Unit, Eurecat Technology Centre of Catalonia, Reus, Catalonia, Spain, and the Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Rovira i Virgili University, Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain. The team managed to identify the enzyme targeted by the broad-spectrum herbicide, glyphosate, and offers the first bioinformatics method for determining potential glyphosate sensitivity. Glyphosate targets an enzyme called 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS) in the shikimate pathway, which synthesizes three essential aromatic amino acids (phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan) in plants. "Based on the structure of the EPSPS enzyme, we are able to classify 80-90% of microbial species into sensitive or resistant to glyphosate," says Docent Pere Puigbò, developer of the new bioinformatics tool. Glyphosate has been regarded as safe to use because shikimate pathway is found only in plants, fungi and bacteria. However, the widespread use of glyphosate may reduce the diversity and composition of microbial communities, including the human gut microbiome. The team's new method has allowed them to create a dataset of EPSPS sequences from thousands of species that will enable major research advances. The method resulted in the classification of sequences from nearly 90% of eukaryotes and more than 80% of prokaryotes. Analysis made with the team's new bioinformatics tool shows that more than half of the human core gut bacterial species are potentially sensitive to glyphosate. "This groundbreaking study provides tools for further studies to determine the actual impact of glyphosate on human and animal gut microbiota and thus to their health," explains Docent Marjo Helander. Read more at the Journal of Hazardous Materials

Celiac.com 08/27/2020 - Several thousand strains of bacteria live in the human gut. Some strains are beneficial, while others can promote disease. To make matters more difficult, many of these strains cannot currently be grown in laboratory settings. Certain bacteria species that cannot live in oxygen-rich environments present an even more difficult study challenge. A team of biological and mechanical engineers at MIT have created a device for growing oxygen-intolerant bacteria in tissue in low-oxygen conditions that mirror the lining of the human colon, allowing them to live for up to four days. The research team used the device to grow a strain of bacteria called Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, which lives in the human gut and protects against inflammation. They also showed that these bacteria, which are often diminished in patients with Crohn's disease, appear to exert many of their protective effects through the release of a fatty acid called butyrate. The research team included senior authors Linda Griffith, a School of Engineering Professor of Teaching Innovation in MIT's Department of Biological Engineering, and MIT mechanical engineering professor David Trumper, together with lead authors, Jianbo Zhang and Yu-Ja Huang, both postdoctoral students. The researchers also plan to use their system to study various bacteria linked to Crohn's disease, to assess the effects of each species of the condition. The team plans to joins forces with Alessio Fasano, division chief of pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition at Massachusetts General Hospital, to study mucosal tissue from people with celiac disease, and other GI conditions. Tissues grown using this method could help to reveal the secrets of microbe-induced inflammation in cells with differing genetic composition. "We are hoping to get new data that will show how the microbes and the inflammation work with the genetic background of the host, to see if there could be people who have a genetic susceptibility to having microbes interfere with the mucosal barrier a little more than other people," Griffith says. Griffith says the device can be used to study other types of mucosal barriers, including those of the female reproductive tract, such as the cervix and the endometrium. Better understanding the composition of gut bacteria, and their roles in gut inflammation and other celiac-related conditions could pave the way for major breakthroughs in the understanding and treatment of celiac disease. Read more at News-medical.net

Celiac.com 04/24/2020 - Most of the time doctors don't know how celiac develops in one person versus another or why celiac develops at a particular time in someone's life. With 40% of the population that carry the genetic markers, what makes those of us that have it so special? That is what researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital are trying to decide. They are looking for 500 children either in the womb or under 6 months of age with a first degree relative with biopsy-confirmed celiac disease for a research study. This is not something that involves medicine, but just an observational study. They will monitor these children every 6 months to take blood samples and stool samples until the children are 5 years old. They may not need a blood sample every six months, you will have to look specifically at the protocol to know what is required. The best part is, the study can be done anywhere in the United States. Participants do not have to go to Massachusetts to complete the study. Scientists will coordinate with your pediatrician or the parents to collect the proper samples. The scientists are looking at the microbiome to see if they can find signals within the microbiome of the precursors of celiac disease. Much of the research on children and the development of celiac is contradictory. Some studies say breast feeding, delaying introduction of gluten until after 6 months, and a vaginal delivery are protective against the development of celiac disease in genetically prone individuals. Other studies say none of those things are true. So, the science is undecided on what genetic factors are causing celiac. Because the microbiome is so elastic - it changes slightly with every meal you consume - it is a great snapshot of a person's health and nutritional status at any given time. The theory is that if a child develops celiac over the course of their first five years, researchers can go back to evaluate their microbiome to see if there are markers or indicators that celiac disease was starting. As I was talking about clinical trials yesterday, this is a great one to consider for a child. It doesn't involve a medicine, just watching someone grow and change. Here is a link to the study for those that may qualify. Also, results of this study may begin to seep out shortly. Visit their site for more info.

Celiac.com 09/04/2019 - Class II human leukocyte antigen (HLA) allele combinations exert strong genetic control over susceptibility to numerous autoimmune diseases. Researchers know that these genes are the most significant risk factors for Type 1 diabetes and celiac disease, but they still know very little about how HLA influences the makeup of the human gut microbiome, which could be an environmental factor for disease susceptibility. A team of researchers recently compared the gut microbiomes of kids with high genetic risk for Type 1 diabetes against those of kids with low genetic risk. Their results show that the two groups have very different gut microbiomes. The research team included Jordan T. Russell, Luiz F. W. Roesch, Malin Ördberg, Jorma Ilonen, Mark A. Atkinson, Desmond A. Schatz, Eric W. Triplett and Johnny Ludvigsson. Using data from a study of All Babies in Southeast Sweden, the team found that genetic risk for the development of Type 1 diabetes autoimmunity is associated with clear changes in the gut microbiome, with both core microbiome and beta diversity differing according to HLA risk group and genotype. Interestingly, protective HLA haplotypes are connected with bacterial genera Intestinibacter and Romboutsia. These results show that general population cohorts can help researchers spot potential environmental triggers or protective factors for autoimmune diseases that can otherwise remain obscured by strong genetic influence. Certain bacterial species were totally absent in children with high genetic risk, but present in children with low or no risk. "[T]his could mean that certain species [of gut bacteria] have protective effects and may be useful in future treatment to prevent autoimmune diseases. It may be that certain species cannot survive in individuals with high genetic risk”, says Johnny Ludvigsson, senior professor in the Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, and senior consultant at HRH Crown Princess Victoria Children’s Hospital, Linköping University Hospital. Read more in Nature Communications volume 10, Article number: 3621 (2019) The researchers in this study are variously affiliated with the Department of Microbiology and Cell Science, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; the Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal do Pampa, São Gabriel, Brazil; the Crown Princess Victoria Children’s Hospital, Region Östergötland, Division of Pediatrics, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; the Immunogenetics Laboratory, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, and Clinical Microbiology, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland; the Department of Pathology, University of Florida Diabetes Institute, Gainesville, FL, USA; the Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; and the Department of Microbiology and Cell Science, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.

Celiac.com 05/02/2019 - Both gastrointestinal and mental disorders can occur alongside other disorders, and both can be triggered by early adversity, such as parental deprivation. Interactions between the brain and bacteria that live in the gut microbiome potentially influence interactions between adversity, gastrointestinal issues and anxiety. These connections have been well-studied in animals, but very little study has been done during human development. What can we learn about mood and gastrointestinal distress in children exposed to adversity? A team of researchers recently set out to explore adversity–gastrointestinal–anxiety associations in youth who were raised with their biological parents, or were exposed to early adverse care giving experiences, such as institutional or foster care followed by international adoption. The research team included Bridget L. Callaghan, Andrea Fields, Dylan G. Gee, Laurel Gabard-Durnam, Christina Caldera, Kathryn L. Humphreys, Bonnie Goff, Jessica Flannery, Eva H. Telzer, Mor Shapiro and Nim Tottenham. To assess connections between adversity, gastrointestinal issues, and anxiety, the team assessed data from a 344 youth, aged from 3–18 years old, who were raised with biological parents, or else exposed to early adverse care giving experiences, such as institutional or foster care followed by international adoption. In Study 1, we demonstrated that previous adverse care experiences were associated with increased incidence of gastrointestinal symptoms in youth. Gastrointestinal symptoms were also associated with concurrent and future anxiety (measured across 5 years), and those gastrointestinal symptoms mediated the adversity–anxiety association at Time 1. Study 2 comprised a sub-sample of children who provided both stool samples and functional magnetic resonance imaging of the brain, and served as a “proof-of-principle." The data from study 2 showed that adversity was tied to changes in both alpha and beta diversity of microbial communities, and both adversity-associated and adversity-independent bacteria level correlated with prefrontal cortex activation to emotional faces. Read more about the implications of these data for supporting youth mental health at Cambridge.org The researchers are variously affiliated with the Department of Psychology, Columbia University in New York, NY; the Department of Psychiatry, Melbourne University, Melbourne, Australia; the Department of Psychology, Yale University in New Haven, CT; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior at the University of California Los Angeles in Los Angeles; the Department of Psychology and Human Development at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN, USA; the Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; the Department of Psychology at the University of Oregon in Eugene, OR; the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, in Chapel Hill, NC; and the David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles in Los Angeles, CA.