The study, published in JCI Insight and led by Namita Rout at the Tulane University National Biomedical Research Center, used nonhuman primates infected with SIV to model HIV infection. Animals received long-term antiretroviral therapy that successfully suppressed the virus, yet scientists still observed signs of intestinal barrier dysfunction that can drive chronic inflammation.
Researchers found disruption in key immune cells, including gamma delta T cells and innate lymphoid cells. These cells normally produce molecules that help cells communicate, protect the intestinal lining and aid tissue repair. In treated animals those protective responses were reduced and were linked to changes in proteins that direct immune activity needed to maintain the gut barrier.
The team tested a broccoli-based supplement designed to raise exposure to dietary indoles. After one month the animals showed signs consistent with improved gut barrier integrity and changes in immune cell populations associated with mucosal repair. The authors caution the findings do not prove supplements are a treatment for people living with HIV; the study used few animals and more research is needed to see if the same effects occur in humans.
Difficult words
- antiretroviral therapy — Long medical treatment that stops virus replication
- intestinal — Related to the gut and its inner lining
- dysfunction — A problem that prevents normal working
- inflammation — Body response that causes redness and swelling
- t cell — A type of immune cell that fights infectionsT cells
- lymphoid cell — Immune cells important for mucosal protectioninnate lymphoid cells
- indole — A natural compound found in some foodsindoles
- integrity — The state of being whole and undamaged
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think a dietary supplement is a good idea to improve gut health in people with HIV? Why or why not?
- What kinds of further research would you want to see before recommending this supplement to people?
- How important do you think the gut barrier is for overall health? Give one reason.
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