Unlocking the Truth: Debunking the Healthy Gut Rumour for Optimal Wellness

Rumour: The Gut Microbiome May Suppress Autoimmune Disease

Truth: This Is True

A recent study published in *Cell Reports* highlights the potential of a specific strain of gut bacteria to influence the immune system and inhibit the progression of an experimental autoimmune disease akin to multiple sclerosis.

Study Findings

Conducted on mouse models, the research revealed that this particular strain of gut bacteria could enhance the levels of anti-inflammatory molecules without inducing other health issues. Notably, the study demonstrated a reduction in both the incidence and severity of the experimental autoimmune disease.

Impact on Nerve Damage and Inflammation

In addition, the gut bacteria were found to mitigate nerve damage and reduce inflammation in the brain and spinal cord of the mice.

Reference

Cekanaviciute E, Yoo BB, Runia TF, et al. Gut bacteria from multiple sclerosis patients modulate human T cells and exacerbate symptoms in mouse models [published correction appears in *Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A*. 2017 Oct 17;114(42):E8943]. *Proc Natl Acad Sci USA*. 2017;114(40):10713-10718. doi:10.1073/pnas.1711235114