Tiny Beads Pave The Way For Future Liver Health
A recent study published in Gut reveals promising findings regarding the use of carbon beads, developed by UCL-spinout Yaqrit, in improving gut, liver, kidney, and brain health in rodent models. These beads, deemed safe for human use, exhibit potential in mitigating liver cirrhosis-related complications.
Globally, liver cirrhosis affects around 112 million individuals, underscoring the pressing need for effective interventions. The study underscores the crucial role of gut microbiota in overall health, emphasizing that microbiota imbalance can lead to the proliferation of harmful bacteria, which release toxins and inflammatory substances detrimental to various organs.
To address these challenges, researchers developed oral carbon beads capable of adsorbing toxins within the gut. Animal studies demonstrated that daily consumption of these beads halted liver scarring progression and reduced mortality rates in models of acute-on-chronic liver failure. Clinical trials involving 28 cirrhosis patients confirmed the safety and minimal side effects of the beads.
The beads operate by selectively absorbing harmful metabolites from detrimental gut bacteria, fostering an environment conducive to beneficial bacteria growth. This mechanism prevents toxins from spreading to other organs, potentially averting conditions like cirrhosis.
Experts view these findings optimistically, acknowledging the need for further validation but recognizing the potential of carbon beads as a targeted intervention for liver diseases. They highlight the importance of preserving gut microbiome health while addressing cirrhosis-related complications, emphasizing the potential of carbon beads in clinical practice pending further trials and regulatory approval.
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