Insights into development of gut microbiome, Vagus nerve stimulation, promise in treatment of IBD, Algae4IBD project

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Comparative genome study of humans and great apes provides insight into development of gut microbiome (6 minute read)

In a groundbreaking study published in Nature Communications, researchers from the Collaborative Research Center 1182 compared the microbiomes of great apes and humans with rural and urban lifestyles. Analyzing 200 stool samples, they found distinct host-specific microbiomes, confirming the close relationship between host and microbiome evolution. The study identified evolutionary conserved microorganisms, such as Prevotella bacteria, significantly reduced in urban populations. Genetic analysis revealed a human-specific gene in Prevotella, possibly linked to adaptation to oxygen levels in the gut. While the connection to diseases like inflammatory bowel disease requires further investigation, the study underscores the importance of microbiome disturbances in disease development and aims to inform future interventions.

Vagus nerve stimulation against Crohn's disease (3 minute read)

Researchers from Feinstein and Cohen Children's Medical Center have explored vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) as a treatment for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. These chronic inflammatory bowel diseases affect around 3 million US adults and had an incidence rate of 16 cases per 100,000 inhabitants in Spain in 2021. The vagus nerve, responsible for involuntary bodily functions, was stimulated using transcutaneous auricular VNS in a trial involving 22 volunteers aged 10-21. Results showed improvements in symptoms for some patients, with further research needed to understand the data fully. The study suggests VNS could be a long-term treatment for these conditions.

Advanced Therapy Combinations Show Promise in Treatment of IBD (6 minute read)

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) treatment is evolving with promising outcomes from combination therapies, particularly dual biologics or biologic-small molecule combinations. Studies presented by Dr. Christopher Ma at the 2023 American College of Gastroenterology meeting demonstrated superior results in refractory IBD patients. The VEGA trial showed positive outcomes in ulcerative colitis with a combination of guselkumab and golimumab. The EXPLORER study introduced a triplet combination in Crohn's disease, achieving endoscopic and clinical remission. Dr. Ma emphasized the need for caution due to potential risks and the necessity for more extensive studies to determine safety, efficacy, and patient populations benefiting the most. Personalized treatment plans based on individual responses are the future focus, requiring comprehensive research through randomized controlled trials. Specialty IBD centers will play a crucial role in assessing therapeutic need and potential risks and benefits of combination therapy.

Algae4IBD Project: Turning to the Sea for Inflammatory Bowel Disease Treatment (2 minute read)

The EU-funded Algae4IBD project addresses inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) using algae-based compounds. Scientists from 21 institutions across 11 countries, including France's Brittany region with extensive kelp forests, aim to extract health-enhancing compounds, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, known for their benefits. The project involves sourcing, harvesting, and processing algae, discovering promising bioactive compounds, and testing them on mice for potential medications. Challenges include ensuring the potency of compounds when scaling up production to industrial levels. The project envisions a transformative role for the sea in treating IBD symptoms.

Healthy Baking Swaps for People With IBD (5 minute read)

For those with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), traditional sweets can cause gastrointestinal upset. Making homemade baked goods allows control over ingredients. Try these IBD-friendly swaps: 1. Replace refined sugar with mashed banana for natural sweetness. 2. Substitute butter with avocado puree for a healthier fat source. 3. Swap white flour for chickpea puree, adding prebiotic fiber. 4. Use pureed silken tofu instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative. 5. Replace oil with applesauce for reduced fat and added fiber. These swaps cater to dietary needs without compromising flavor or texture.

Once-a-day pill recommended for digestive disorder ulcerative colitis that's 'painful and debilitating' (2 minute read)

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) has recommended the once-a-day pill, etrasimod (Velsipity), as a promising treatment for ulcerative colitis. This digestive disorder affects over 300,000 people in the UK, causing painful symptoms like recurring diarrhea and stomach pains. The recommendation applies to patients over 16 who haven't responded well to other treatments. Etrasimod could benefit more than 25,000 people in England, expanding treatment options for a condition with no known cure. The recommendation is pending approval from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency. Crohn's & Colitis UK welcomes this development, emphasizing the need for diverse treatment options.

No Significant Differences in Efficacy Shown Between Reference Drug, Biosimilars in Patients With IBD (5 minute read)

A prospective study investigated the impact of switching from originators to biosimilars (infliximab and adalimumab) in 210 inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients. Over 24 weeks, no significant changes were observed in clinical or biochemical activity, therapeutic drug levels, or immunogenicity after the switch. Biosimilar discontinuation rates were low (4.8%), but 13.3% reported nocebo effects within the first 3 months. Adverse events occurred in 9.5% of patients, with 1.9% experiencing infusion reactions. Despite comparable efficacy, the study emphasizes the need for follow-ups and disease monitoring to address patient perceptions and ensure treatment adherence.