A study published in Stem Cell Reports describes a new method for mimicking inflammatory bowel disease using human stem cells.
According to the International Society for Stem Cell Research, as reported by SciTechDaily, researchers from the University of Tokyo have developed an intestinal model capable of reproducing the disease’s key mechanisms.
By exposing the cells to an inflammatory protein, they were able to induce both inflammation and cell death, which are also observed in patients.
This approach makes it possible to analyze disease processes more precisely than previous laboratory models.
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The researchers used a systematic screening method in which approximately 3,500 compounds were tested for their ability to protect the cells.
Need for new solutions
Inflammatory bowel disease affects around four million people globally and is associated with symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fatigue, according to the International Society for Stem Cell Research.
Existing treatments primarily target the immune system, but many patients do not achieve sufficient relief.
This creates a need for new therapeutic strategies.
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Animal models are still used to validate laboratory findings. Results from such experiments can indicate whether a treatment has potential beyond the laboratory.
A surprising finding
During the screening process, the researchers identified that glycyrrhizin from licorice root significantly reduced both inflammation and cell death in the intestinal model.
The effect was confirmed in mouse studies, where the compound also protected intestinal tissue.
The finding highlights the value of stem cell–based models in the development of new treatments.
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At the same time, it points to the potential of naturally occurring compounds.
The compound may have a potential effect against inflammatory bowel disease, although further clinical research is necessary.
Sources: SciTechDaily, Stem Cell Reports, and the International Society for Stem Cell Research.
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