The Tokyo University of Science has pinpointed a specific polyphenolic compound found in blueberries that could lead to a new promising treatment for IBD. Plants and herbs have been used for centuries to treat and help relieve bodily ailments. Only now are we discovering the scientific properties that these plants contain, and their true effect on the body. There may be some validity to those old wives’ tales after all!
The phytocompounds found in certain plants and herbs have restorative properties like antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The team of researchers at The Tokyo University of Science had a goal of understanding these specific functional foods and how the body uses them to help lead to advancement in treatment strategies for IBD. Professor Chiharu Nishiyama and his team of scientists have found a polyphenolic compound named ‘pterostilbene’ or PSB, that has major immunosuppressive properties. This makes it a contender as a therapeutic option for chronic inflammatory diseases. They’re reasoning came from knowing that a very similar compound called ‘resveratrol’ or RSV is known to help colitis ulcers in animals. Could this newly found pterostilbene do the same?
In IBD patients there is elevated inflammation because of an over response of the immune system. This response produces an excess of immune cells called dendritic cells (DCs) and T-cells. These cells are what trigger the overreaction of the immune system itself. So, if some sort of immunosuppression can be found, it will decrease overall inflammation resulting in less active disease.
What they discovered was that the PSB actually prevented T-cells from differentiating subtypes of cells that elevate the immune response. It was also found to inhibit inflammatory production for DC cells, and when ingested orally improved symptoms of IBD in mice. It is also very easily absorbed by the body which is a huge plus! Having such strong immunosuppressive properties PSB is a new and promising lead for development of medications and treatments in the near future for IBD and other inflammatory diseases.
Check out the full study from the Tokyo University of Science:
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/09/200923164607.htm