American scientists have discovered a protein that plays a key role in protecting the gastrointestinal tract from bacterial infections and inflammation. As it turned out, a decrease in the level of this protein, known as granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), can contribute to the development of a number of dangerous intestinal diseases caused by various pathogens, including, in particular, Crohn’s disease.
“In a healthy gut, there is always some mild inflammation that doesn’t interfere with how it works,” explains study leader Dr. Martin Kagnoff, professor emeritus of medicine and pediatrics at the University of California School of Medicine, USA. ─ The study showed that granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor plays an important role in the regulation of cell function. During these processes, it is determined whether this inflammation is safe
for the work of the intestine or whether it is caused by pathogens. As soon as the delicate balance of microflora is disturbed, this will inevitably lead to health-threatening consequences.
Dr. Kagnoff also said that the researchers’ results explain why some patients with Crohn’s disease https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crohn%27s_disease improve after receiving an additional dose of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor. He suggested that a deeper understanding of the role of GM-CSF in the processes occurring in the intestine, in the future may lead to the creation of new drugs, which will be based on this substance.