https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/health_medicine/gastrointestinal_problems/ Gastrointestinal tract. Learn about symptoms of heartburn, acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome-IBS, irritable bowel disease-IBD, GERD, stomach cancer and other gastrointestinal disorders. Find new treatment information for a range of gastrointestinal problems. en-us Mon, 13 Apr 2026 10:42:58 EDT Mon, 13 Apr 2026 10:42:58 EDT 60 https://www.sciencedaily.com/images/scidaily-logo-rss.png https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/health_medicine/gastrointestinal_problems/ For more science news, visit ScienceDaily. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260408225944.htm A new study reveals that gut bacteria may play a key role in triggering ALS and frontotemporal dementia. Harmful sugars produced by these microbes can spark immune responses that damage the brain. This breakthrough explains why some genetically at-risk people develop the diseases while others don’t. Even more promising, reducing these sugars improved brain health in experiments, hinting at new treatment possibilities. Thu, 09 Apr 2026 06:36:40 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260408225944.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260403224500.htm A new study reveals that gut bacteria and metabolites may hold the key to detecting serious digestive diseases earlier and more easily. Using AI, scientists found that biomarkers linked to one condition can often predict others, showing these diseases are more interconnected than previously thought. This cross-disease insight could lead to faster diagnoses without invasive procedures. Sat, 04 Apr 2026 23:06:31 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260403224500.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260402042751.htm A new clinical trial suggests that what people eat could finally offer real relief for Crohn’s disease, a condition that has long lacked clear dietary guidance. Researchers found that a “fasting-mimicking diet” — involving just five days a month of very low-calorie, plant-based meals — led to noticeable improvements in symptoms for most participants. Even more striking, the diet didn’t just make patients feel better; it also reduced key biological markers of inflammation linked to the disease. Fri, 03 Apr 2026 04:55:54 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260402042751.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328024519.htm Scientists have uncovered how your body actually tells your brain to stop eating when you’re sick. In a new study, researchers found that specialized cells in the gut detect parasites and send signals that ultimately trigger the brain to suppress appetite. This process builds over time, explaining why you may feel fine at first but then suddenly lose interest in food as an infection takes hold. Sat, 28 Mar 2026 04:35:02 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260328024519.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260326080752.htm Gut bacteria aren’t just passive passengers—they can actively send proteins straight into our cells. Using microscopic injection systems, even harmless microbes can influence immune responses and metabolic pathways. Researchers found these interactions may play a role in inflammatory diseases like Crohn’s. It’s a major shift in how scientists understand the microbiome’s power over human health. Fri, 27 Mar 2026 08:23:14 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260326080752.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260324024259.htm Nearly half of Americans don’t know that processed meat increases colorectal cancer risk, according to a new poll. But once they learn the connection, most support warning labels—suggesting people want clearer information. Experts warn that awareness is lagging even among healthcare providers. The good news: diets rich in plant foods and fiber, along with healthy habits, can dramatically lower risk. Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:38:30 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260324024259.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260318033134.htm A risky but often lifesaving surgery that removes damaged parts of the small intestine can leave patients facing a new threat: serious liver damage with no available treatment. Now, scientists have developed a promising compound that works directly in the gut to shield the liver and improve how the body absorbs nutrients. In mouse studies, the drug boosted weight gain, reduced harmful liver scarring, and avoided side effects by staying confined to the intestines. Wed, 18 Mar 2026 03:31:34 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260318033134.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260317064444.htm Early life stress may set the stage for long-term digestive problems by disrupting the gut-brain connection. Studies in both mice and thousands of children found links to symptoms like pain, constipation, and IBS. Scientists discovered that different biological pathways control different gut issues, hinting at more personalized treatments in the future. The research also highlights how a child’s early environment can have lasting physical effects—not just emotional ones. Tue, 17 Mar 2026 22:08:54 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260317064444.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260315004403.htm Scientists at MIT have discovered that a little-known protein called intelectin-2 plays a powerful double role in defending the gut. The protein strengthens the mucus layer that lines the gastrointestinal tract while also trapping and disabling harmful bacteria that try to break through. By binding to sugars on both mucus molecules and bacterial surfaces, intelectin-2 forms a protective barrier and can even destroy microbes, including some that resist antibiotics. Mon, 16 Mar 2026 00:05:04 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260315004403.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260314030516.htm Researchers have created “Smart Underwear,” a wearable device that measures flatulence by detecting hydrogen produced by gut microbes. Early tests suggest people may pass gas about 32 times a day—much higher than previous estimates. The device gives scientists a new way to track gut microbial activity in everyday life. It will power a new nationwide study called the Human Flatus Atlas to map normal patterns of gas production. Sat, 14 Mar 2026 18:36:43 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260314030516.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260313002938.htm Researchers studying over 8,400 colonoscopies discovered that having both adenomas and serrated polyps in the bowel can raise the risk of serious precancerous changes by up to five times. These two polyp types may represent separate cancer pathways that can occur at the same time. Nearly half of patients with serrated polyps also had adenomas, making this high-risk combination more common than expected. The results emphasize the importance of early detection and regular colonoscopy monitoring. Fri, 13 Mar 2026 06:14:14 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260313002938.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260313002640.htm Researchers have identified two gut bacteria that can produce serotonin, a key chemical that regulates bowel movements. In experiments with mice lacking serotonin, the microbes boosted serotonin levels, increased nerve cells in the colon, and normalized intestinal movement. The study also found that people with IBS have lower levels of one of these bacteria. The discovery suggests gut microbes could become a powerful new target for treating digestive disorders. Fri, 13 Mar 2026 23:28:29 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260313002640.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260309183010.htm Researchers have found hundreds of metabolic enzymes attached to human DNA inside the cell nucleus. Different tissues and cancers show unique patterns of these enzymes, forming a “nuclear metabolic fingerprint.” Some of the enzymes gather around damaged DNA to assist with repair. The discovery reveals an unexpected link between metabolism and gene regulation that could influence how cancers grow and respond to treatment. Mon, 09 Mar 2026 19:54:17 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260309183010.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260307213252.htm A growing trend called “fibermaxxing” is putting dietary fiber in the spotlight—and for good reason. Fiber plays a powerful role in keeping the body healthy, from supporting digestion and feeding beneficial gut microbes to helping regulate blood sugar and cholesterol. Researchers say getting enough fiber may even lower the risk of conditions like obesity, diabetes, and certain cancers. Sun, 08 Mar 2026 15:57:15 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260307213252.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260225081159.htm Popular acid reflux drugs such as Prilosec, Nexium, and Protonix may carry hidden risks when taken long term. A new study found that extended use disrupted iron and calcium levels in rats, changes associated with anemia and osteoporosis risk. Researchers also observed shifts in mineral balance across multiple organs. Experts say the medications are effective, but prolonged use without medical guidance could have unintended consequences. Thu, 26 Feb 2026 07:27:39 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260225081159.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260222092317.htm Training harder may do more than build muscle—it could transform your gut. Researchers found that intense workouts change the balance of bacteria and important compounds in athletes’ digestive systems. When training loads dropped, diet quality slipped and digestion slowed, triggering different microbial shifts. These hidden changes might influence performance in ways scientists are only beginning to understand. Mon, 23 Feb 2026 23:45:43 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260222092317.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260219040745.htm A newly discovered bacterial duo may be the hidden cause of chronic constipation. The two microbes break down the colon’s protective mucus layer, leaving stool dry and hard — a problem traditional laxatives don’t fix. Parkinson’s patients, who often struggle with constipation years before tremors appear, have higher levels of these bacteria. Blocking the bacteria’s mucus-destroying enzyme prevented constipation in mice, hinting at a new treatment strategy. Thu, 19 Feb 2026 08:46:05 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260219040745.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260211204210.htm A global study has uncovered a mysterious group of gut bacteria that shows up again and again in healthy people. Known as CAG-170, these microbes were found at lower levels in people with a range of chronic diseases. Genetic clues suggest they help digest food and support the broader gut ecosystem. Researchers say the discovery could reshape how we measure and maintain gut health. Sat, 14 Feb 2026 07:58:31 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260211204210.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260211204204.htm A new clinical trial suggests that changing when you eat could make a meaningful difference for people living with Crohn’s disease. Researchers found that time-restricted feeding, a form of intermittent fasting that limits meals to an 8-hour daily window, reduced disease activity by 40% and cut abdominal discomfort in half over 12 weeks. Participants also lost weight and showed healthier inflammation and immune markers, even though they did not reduce calories or change what they ate. Wed, 11 Feb 2026 21:25:28 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260211204204.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260211073037.htm A six-week study from the University of Nottingham suggests that pairing fermented kefir with a diverse prebiotic fiber mix may deliver a powerful anti-inflammatory boost. This “synbiotic” combination outperformed omega-3 supplements and fiber alone, leading to the broadest drop in inflammation-related proteins in healthy adults. By feeding beneficial microbes and helping them produce compounds like butyrate, the combo appeared to improve overall immune balance and metabolic health. Wed, 11 Feb 2026 23:40:29 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260211073037.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260201231240.htm Chronic stress can damage the gut’s protective lining, triggering inflammation that may worsen depression. New research shows that stress lowers levels of a protein called Reelin, which plays a key role in both gut repair and brain health. Remarkably, a single injection restored Reelin levels and produced antidepressant-like effects in preclinical models. The findings hint at a future treatment that targets depression through the gut–brain connection. Mon, 02 Feb 2026 11:37:15 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260201231240.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260125083401.htm A newly uncovered immune chain reaction in the gut may explain why people with inflammatory bowel disease face a much higher risk of colorectal cancer. Researchers found that a powerful inflammatory signal flips on specialized gut immune cells, which then call in waves of white blood cells from the bone marrow and rewire them in ways that help tumors grow. This process appears to damage DNA in the gut lining and create a tumor-friendly environment. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 10:15:11 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260125083401.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260123225920.htm Chemotherapy’s gut damage turns out to have a surprising upside. By changing nutrient availability in the intestine, it alters gut bacteria and increases levels of a microbial molecule that travels to the bone marrow. This signal reshapes immune cell production, strengthening anti-cancer defenses and making metastatic sites harder for tumors to colonize. Patient data suggest this immune rewiring is linked to better survival. Fri, 23 Jan 2026 23:12:49 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260123225920.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260122093437.htm A new blood test may reveal Crohn’s disease years before symptoms begin. The test detects an unusual immune response to gut bacteria in people who later develop the condition. By studying healthy relatives of Crohn’s patients, researchers identified early warning signals long in advance. The findings raise hope for earlier diagnosis and future prevention. Thu, 22 Jan 2026 09:34:37 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260122093437.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260122074659.htm Scientists studying genetic data from over a quarter million people have uncovered new clues about what controls how fast the gut moves. They identified multiple DNA regions linked to bowel movement frequency, confirming known gut pathways and revealing new ones. The biggest surprise was a strong connection to vitamin B1, a common nutrient not usually linked to digestion. Thu, 22 Jan 2026 07:53:07 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260122074659.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260113220920.htm Some people get drunk without drinking because their gut bacteria produce alcohol from food. Researchers have now identified the microbes and biological pathways behind this rare condition, auto-brewery syndrome. Tests showed patients’ gut samples produced far more alcohol than those of healthy people. In one case, a fecal transplant led to long-lasting symptom relief. Tue, 13 Jan 2026 23:41:15 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260113220920.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260108231411.htm Although the gut renews itself constantly, its stem cells accumulate age-related molecular changes that quietly alter how genes are switched on and off. Scientists found that this “epigenetic drift” follows a clear pattern and appears in both aging intestines and most colon cancers. Some regions age faster than others, forming a patchwork of weakened tissue more prone to degeneration. Encouragingly, researchers showed this drift can be slowed—and partly reversed—by restoring iron levels or key cellular signals. Sat, 10 Jan 2026 08:17:12 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260108231411.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260103155028.htm Researchers have discovered a way to help aging intestines heal themselves using CAR T-cell therapy. By targeting senescent cells that build up over time, the treatment boosted gut regeneration, reduced inflammation, and improved nutrient absorption in mice. It even helped protect the intestine from radiation damage, with benefits lasting up to a year. Early results in human intestinal cells suggest the approach could one day improve gut health in older adults and cancer patients. Sat, 03 Jan 2026 20:59:17 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260103155028.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251223043938.htm Scientists studying thousands of rats discovered that gut bacteria are shaped by both personal genetics and the genetics of social partners. Some genes promote certain microbes that can spread between individuals living together. When researchers accounted for this social sharing, genetic influence on the microbiome turned out to be much stronger than previously thought. The study suggests genes can affect others indirectly, without DNA ever being exchanged. Tue, 23 Dec 2025 23:31:13 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251223043938.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251214100926.htm Scientists found that certain molecules made by gut bacteria travel to the liver and help control how the body uses energy. These molecules change depending on diet, genetics, and shifts in the microbiome. Some even improved insulin response in liver cells when tested in the lab. The findings could open the door to new ways of preventing or managing obesity and diabetes. Sun, 14 Dec 2025 11:23:19 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251214100926.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251209043040.htm Microscopic fibers secretly shape how every organ in the body works, yet they’ve been notoriously hard to study—until now. A new imaging technique called ComSLI reveals hidden fiber orientations in stunning detail using only a rotating LED light and simple microscopy equipment. It works on any tissue slide, from fresh samples to those more than a century old, allowing scientists to uncover microstructural changes in disorders like Alzheimer’s and even explore the architecture of muscle, bone, and blood vessels. Tue, 09 Dec 2025 10:50:53 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251209043040.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251207031339.htm Scientists found that kale’s prized nutrients are hard for the body to absorb unless they’re eaten with oil. Cooking doesn’t improve absorption, but adding oil-based dressings—or even more advanced nanoemulsion sauces—does. These combinations dramatically increase access to kale’s carotenoids. The research could inspire new, healthier dressings designed to supercharge everyday vegetables. Mon, 08 Dec 2025 07:31:51 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251207031339.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251202052215.htm Researchers discovered that 168 common chemicals can disrupt the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, with some also promoting antibiotic resistance. Many of these substances—found in food, water, and household items—weren’t previously suspected of affecting living organisms. A new machine learning model now predicts which chemicals may harm the microbiome. The findings suggest safety testing must expand to consider gut health. Tue, 02 Dec 2025 23:44:07 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251202052215.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251121082046.htm Tiny ingestible spheres filled with engineered bacteria can detect intestinal bleeding by glowing when they encounter heme. Early tests in mice suggest they could become a quick, noninvasive way to monitor gut disease. Fri, 21 Nov 2025 08:30:39 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251121082046.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251103093012.htm UC San Diego researchers combined artificial intelligence with molecular biology to unravel how immune cells in the gut decide between inflammation and healing, a process gone awry in Crohn’s disease. They discovered that the NOD2 gene’s interaction with a protein called girdin is crucial for maintaining balance. When this connection is lost due to a common mutation, inflammation spirals out of control. Mon, 03 Nov 2025 21:44:57 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251103093012.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251024041819.htm ASU scientists found that people whose gut microbes make more methane extract more calories from fiber-rich foods. Methanogens help the microbiome turn fiber into energy by consuming hydrogen and producing methane. Using advanced metabolic chambers, researchers measured how diet and gut chemistry interact, showing that methane may signal efficient digestion. The work could lead to personalized diets based on individual microbiomes. Fri, 24 Oct 2025 12:46:40 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251024041819.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251023031625.htm MIT scientists have found that an amino acid called cysteine can help the gut heal itself. In mouse studies, a cysteine-rich diet activated immune cells that release a molecule speeding up tissue repair in the small intestine. This process helped regenerate the gut lining after damage from radiation or chemotherapy. Thu, 23 Oct 2025 09:10:35 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251023031625.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250919085235.htm For decades, scientists have puzzled over why smoking makes Crohn’s disease worse but seems to protect people from ulcerative colitis. Now, researchers at RIKEN have discovered that smoking creates metabolites like hydroquinone that allow mouth bacteria—especially Streptococcus mitis—to settle in the gut. These bacteria spark an immune response that reduces inflammation in colitis but worsens Crohn’s. The findings open the door to new therapies using probiotics or targeted compounds that mimic smoking’s protective effects without its deadly risks. Fri, 19 Sep 2025 20:28:11 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250919085235.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250907172649.htm Scientists have uncovered a surprising new pathway behind life-threatening food allergies. Instead of histamine, a different chemical called leukotrienes drives severe reactions in the gut. These molecules, released by specialized mast cells, trigger inflammation and anaphylaxis when food allergens are ingested. Drugs already approved for asthma may block this pathway, opening the door to new ways to prevent or treat food-induced allergic emergencies. Mon, 08 Sep 2025 04:48:45 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250907172649.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250825015635.htm UBC researchers revealed that gut bacteria can digest cellulose-based food thickeners, once thought indigestible, by using enzymes activated by natural dietary fibers. This discovery suggests these common additives may play a more active role in our nutrition than previously believed. Mon, 25 Aug 2025 04:35:05 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250825015635.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250822073820.htm Researchers have created plant-based microbeads that trap fat in the gut, helping rats lose weight without side effects. Unlike current drugs, the beads are safe, tasteless, and easy to mix into everyday foods. Human trials are now underway. Sun, 24 Aug 2025 01:27:45 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250822073820.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250730030346.htm A new global study reveals a striking post-pandemic surge in gut-brain disorders like IBS and functional dyspepsia. Researchers compared data from 2017 and 2023 and discovered sharp increases IBS up 28% and dyspepsia nearly 44%. Those suffering from long COVID were especially vulnerable, reporting more anxiety, depression, and worse quality of life. These findings spotlight the urgent need for deeper investigation into the gut-brain axis and revised care models in a post-COVID world. Wed, 30 Jul 2025 03:03:46 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250730030346.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250729001208.htm A mysterious gut hormone may be behind many cases of chronic diarrhea, especially in people with undiagnosed bile acid malabsorption, a condition often mistaken for irritable bowel syndrome. Researchers from the University of Cambridge identified that the hormone INSL5 spikes when bile acid reaches the colon, triggering intense diarrhea. Their discovery not only sheds light on the biological cause of symptoms but opens the door to a diagnostic blood test and new treatment options, including a surprising existing drug that blocks this hormone’s effects. Tue, 29 Jul 2025 01:33:52 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250729001208.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250602155806.htm Chronic inflammatory bowel disease is challenging to treat and carries a risk of complications, including the development of bowel cancer. Young people are particularly affected: when genetic predisposition and certain factors coincide, diseases such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease usually manifest between the ages of 15 and 29 -- a critical period for education and early career development. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial. Researchers have now discovered a therapeutic target that significantly contributes to halting the ongoing inflammatory processes. Mon, 02 Jun 2025 15:58:06 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250602155806.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250528174931.htm New research conducted by an international consortium shows that IBD and related conditions are now spreading through developing regions in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Wed, 28 May 2025 17:49:31 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250528174931.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250528131938.htm 'Biomarkers' may help to improve detection and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases such as gastric cancer, colorectal cancer, and inflammatory bowel disease. Wed, 28 May 2025 13:19:38 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250528131938.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250528131843.htm Researchers find high-fat diets set off metabolic dysfunction in cells, leading to weight gain, but these effects can be reversed by treatment with an antioxidant. Wed, 28 May 2025 13:18:43 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250528131843.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250519131815.htm A study has become the first in the world to unravel the immediate effects of a high-fat diet on our gut health. Mon, 19 May 2025 13:18:15 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250519131815.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250519131258.htm Feeding the gut acetate, paired with the right Bacteroides bacteria, led mice to shed fat without losing muscle. The combo pushed their metabolism into fat-burning mode, similar to fasting or a keto diet. Tests showed the effect vanished without gut bacteria, proving microbes are essential. Researchers now hope this discovery could inspire new obesity-fighting foods. Mon, 19 May 2025 13:12:58 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250519131258.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250506131151.htm Researchers show how mice fed a Western-style diet are not able to rebuild a 'healthy,' diverse gut microbiome following antibiotic treatment. These mice were also more susceptible to infection by pathogens like Salmonella. However, mice given food loosely mimicking a Mediterranean diet -- high in plant-based fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains -- were able to quickly restore a healthy and resilient gut microbiome after antibiotics. Tue, 06 May 2025 13:11:51 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250506131151.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250501164002.htm A new approach to drug design can deliver medicine directly to the gut in mice at significantly lower doses than current inflammatory bowel disease treatments. The proof-of-concept study introduced a mechanism called 'GlycoCaging' that releases medicine exclusively to the lower gut at doses up to 10 times lower than current therapies. Thu, 01 May 2025 16:40:02 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250501164002.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250501122047.htm Scientists inserted DNA-encoding methylmercury detoxification enzymes into the genome of an abundant human gut bacterium. The engineered bacterium detoxified methylmercury in the gut of mice and dramatically reduced the amount that reached other tissues, such as the brain and liver. Mice given an oral probiotic containing the engineered microbe and fed a diet high in bluefin tuna had much lower methylmercury levels than expected, suggesting that a probiotic might eventually make it safer for people to consume fish. Researchers performed the tests using pregnant mice and found lower levels of methylmercury in both maternal and fetal tissues, and lower signs of mercury toxicity in the fetal brain. Thu, 01 May 2025 12:20:47 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250501122047.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250430142243.htm Protein sources appear to have major effects on both the population and function of the mouse gut microbiome. Wed, 30 Apr 2025 14:22:43 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250430142243.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250423120659.htm Scientists have discovered a surprising new connection between gut health and blood cancer risk one that could transform how we think about aging, inflammation, and the early stages of leukemia. Wed, 23 Apr 2025 12:06:59 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250423120659.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250422155930.htm Genome editing has advanced at a rapid pace with promising results for treating genetic conditions -- but there is always room for improvement. A new paper showcases the power of scalable protein engineering combined with machine learning to boost progress in the field of gene and cell therapy. In their study, authors developed a machine learning algorithm -- known as PAMmla -- that can predict the properties of about 64 million genome editing enzymes. The work could help reduce off-target effects and improve editing safety, enhance editing efficiency, and enable researchers to predict customized enzymes for new therapeutic targets. Tue, 22 Apr 2025 15:59:30 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250422155930.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250416135743.htm Researchers have made significant advancements in understanding the earliest stages of stomach cancer, a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, through two recent innovative studies. With a prevalence rates particularly high in East Asia, including China, this cancer often stems from chronic inflammation caused by Helicobacter pylori infection, which affects approximately 15% of the Hong Kong population. This inflammation can lead to a pre-cancerous stage known as intestinal metaplasia. The innovative studies have uncovered crucial insights into the earliest changes in the stomach that contribute to the development of stomach cancer, laying the foundation for improved prevention and early detection, ultimately saving lives. Wed, 16 Apr 2025 13:57:43 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250416135743.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250414162040.htm A new study suggests that sauerkraut could help protect your gut, an essential part of overall health. Mon, 14 Apr 2025 16:20:40 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250414162040.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250403143837.htm In the fight against bacterial pathogens, researchers are combining vaccination with targeted colonization of the intestine by harmless microorganisms. This approach could potentially mark a turning point in the antibiotics crisis. Thu, 03 Apr 2025 14:38:37 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250403143837.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250401151630.htm A new study examined whether a specialized diet could improve symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders linked to an imbalance in gut microbiota. Tue, 01 Apr 2025 15:16:30 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250401151630.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/03/250326154441.htm A tiny magnetic robot which can take 3D scans from deep within the body, that could revolutionize early cancer detection, has been developed by researchers. The team say this is the first time it has been possible to generate high-resolution three-dimensional ultrasound images taken from a probe deep inside the gastrointestinal tract, or gut. Wed, 26 Mar 2025 15:44:41 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/03/250326154441.htm