Quick Update: New findings on gut health and covid-19 spike protein

I am sharing a quick update to my readers on a new study posted to the journal of Mucosal Immunity in August 2024. Here is an overview of the paper.

Overview:

The study described in the paper is an experimental study that primarily uses animal models (specifically, murine models, or mice) to investigate the effects of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein on the gastrointestinal tract. The researchers also employed in vitro experiments using human enterocytes (gut cells) to further explore the impact of the Spike protein on gut health. Additionally, the study involved molecular docking analyses to examine the interaction between the Spike protein and specific proteins involved in gut function.

The study investigates the effects of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein on the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, emphasising its impact on gut integrity and immune response. The research provides insight into the mechanisms underlying COVID-19-related gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhoea, and presents an experimental model using murine jejunal loops to simulate these effects.

Key Findings:

1. Intestinal Inflammation: The Spike protein induces significant inflammation in the murine jejunal loops, characterised by leukocyte infiltration, oedema, and increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-6, TNF-α). This inflammation disrupts the intestinal mucosal barrier, leading to impaired gut function.

2. Gut Barrier Disruption: The study demonstrates that the Spike protein compromises the integrity of the intestinal mucosa. This includes alterations in the expression of tight junction proteins, leading to increased intestinal permeability and reduced transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER). These changes suggest a weakened barrier function, making the gut more susceptible to further damage and pathogen invasion.

3. Paneth and Goblet Cells Impairment: The Spike protein causes degranulation of Paneth cells, leading to reduced levels of lysozyme, an important antimicrobial enzyme. It also diminishes mucin 2 (MUC2) expression in goblet cells, weakening the mucus layer that protects the intestinal epithelium.

4. Electrolyte Imbalance and Diarrhoea: The Spike protein increases chloride ion secretion in the gut, which can contribute to secretory diarrhoea, a common symptom observed in COVID-19 patients. This electrolyte imbalance disrupts the homeostatic environment of the intestine.

5. Molecular Mechanisms: Molecular docking studies suggest that the Spike protein interacts with chloride channels (CFTR and CaCC), potentially driving the secretory effects observed. This interaction could be a key factor in the development of COVID-19-associated diarrhoea

Clinical Relevance:

The findings underscore the potential of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein to cause significant GI tract impairment, extending the understanding of COVID-19's impact beyond respiratory symptoms. This study provides a robust model for investigating COVID-19-related GI dysfunctions and could aid in the development of targeted therapies to mitigate these effects.

Targeted Therapies:

Supporting gut health, especially in the context of viral or spike protein persistence, requires a holistic approach that integrates several key lifestyle interventions. The aim is to reduce or eliminate spike persistence, using targeted nutraceuticals and medications and promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and help maintain the integrity of the gut lining. Nutrition, sunlight, hydration, sleep, balancing circadian rhythms and some supplements and medications can help to support this. 

I encourage everyone to go back and review Dr Carols Brogna’s work on this area and review his intervention strategies at the onset of any new infection.

I am currently exploring the use of human milk oligosaccharides, humic acids, prebiotics, pectin’s and immunoglobulins as nutraceutical interventions and to restore gut function.  Watch this space for further updates on the research.

Reference:

Renata R. Nascimento, Cristhyane C. Aquino, José K. Sousa, Kalinne L. Gadelha, Aurilene G. Cajado, Carolina S. Schiebel, Sarah A Dooley, Paulo A. Sousa, Jefferson A. Rocha, Jand R. Medeiros, Pedro C. Magalhães, Daniele Maria-Ferreira, Marcelo B. Gois, Roberto C. P. Lima-Junior, Deysi V. T. Wong, Aldo M. Lima, Amy C. Engevik, Lucas D. Nicolau, Mariana L. Vale,

SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein triggers gut impairment since mucosal barrier to innermost layers: From basic science to clinical relevance,

Mucosal Immunology,

Volume 17, Issue 4,

2024,

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Learn with me

I am excited to announce the first of my series of masterclasses to help educate clinicians and support those experience chronic health conditions. If you want to learn more about my interventions, then please do consider joining me. The Masterclass is jammed packed full of new information.  The subject this time is A new approach to managing histamine intolerance and mast cell activation syndrome and more details can be found here: https://l.bttr.to/dz6Aa

Price for lifetime access: £75.00 

Content Section 1: Learning the basics

• What is HIT and MCAS

• The new and improved histamine bucket concept

• Myth-busting the low histamine diet

• Identifying environmental triggers

• Digestion and the gut health

• Medications 101 (The good, bad, and ugly)

• Supplements 101 (The good, bad, and ugly)

Section 2: Interventions

• Light, water, and magnetism - An introduction to new concepts of healing

• The circadian reset: Meal timings, sleep, and light

• How to do an environmental detox

• Supporting oral and nasal health

• First aid for herx, histamine dumps, and MCAS flares

• Piecing it all together: Full intervention roadmap

Disclaimer

The information provided in this blog post is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this post.

This content does not establish a consultant-patient relationship. The author is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any suggestions, preparations, or procedures described in this post. Individual results may vary, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another.

The dietary and lifestyle changes, supplements, and treatments discussed in this post may interact with medications or have contraindications for certain individuals. Do not start, stop, or change any treatment regimens without first consulting your healthcare provider.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately. Reliance on any information provided in this post is solely at your own risk.