Immune Disorders: White Blood Cell Modification Helps Inflammatory Bowel Disease

New findings published in the journal Cellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology reveal that by modifying small white blood cells, there may be hope in better treating certain immune disorders.

More specifically, researchers found that modulation of B lymphocyte function could help regulating T lymphocyte function to treat immune-mediated disorders, including such health issues as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes colitis and Crohn's disease. Both illnesses typically involve severe forms of diarrhea, pain, fatigue and weight loss if not properly treated and can sometimes involve life-threatening complications.

"Our study elucidates previously unexplored intercellular signals by which gut microbiota regulate the mucosal immune system to prevent disease," said lead study author Yoshiyuki Mishima, MD, PhD, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, in a news release. "These findings potentially could be exploited to treat patients with IBD."

During the study, researchers uncovered the following pathway involving gut bacteria that stimulates intestinal B lymphocytes that release interleukin (IL)- 10, which, in turn, induces the development of regulatory T lymphocytes to prevent excessive inflammatory responses that limit immune-mediated disease. From there, the signaling in part, depends on IL-27, a member of the IL-12 cytokine family that has been linked to IBD.

Researchers noted the well-recognized role of B lymphocytes in protecting antibodies. However, until the recent findings, the contributions of B lymphocytes (and their antibodies) had not been well-understood. Furthermore, the mouse study reveals that IL-10 and IL-27, which are secreted by B-lymphocytes, help to regulate the development of regulatory T lymphocytes.

"The work provides new insight into mechanisms by which gut bacteria drive mucosal immune homeostasis," concluded editor-in-chief of the journal Jerrold R. Turner, MD, PhD, AGAF.

Symptoms of IBD can range from severe to rather mild. If you or a loved one are experiencing any issues, talk with your doctor.

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