Phosphatidylcholine (PC) Controls Inflammation in Ulcerative Colitis
Phosphatidylcholine (PC) is a major lipid of the gastrointestinal mucus layer. We recently showed that mucus from patients suffering from ulcerative colitis has low levels of PC. Clinical studies reveal that the therapeutic addition of PC to the colonic mucus using slow release preparations is beneficial.
Results:PC induces a prolonged inhibition of TNF-α-induced pro-inflammatory signalling. This inhibition may be caused by a shift of the TNF-α receptors at the surface to lipid rafts. Our results may offer a potential molecular explanation for the positive role of PC seen in clinical studies for the treatment of ulcerative colitis.
Treede, I Braun, A et al. TNF-alpha induced up-regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines is reduced by phosphatidylcholine in intestinal epithelial cells. BMC Gastroenterology 2009, 9:53 (13 July 2009) View Abstract View Full Paper
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Keywords:cytokines, EFAs, fatty acids, gut, gut health, IBD, inflammation, mucosal
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The immune system is prone to the same grave misfortunes as any defense system handling weapons: collateral damage that comes with the destruction of the enemy on one’s own territory and friendly fire due to mistaken identity. Whereas the collateral damage is the price we pay for clearance of infections, autoimmunity is a pathological process. Nevertheless, the effector mechanisms involved in both processes are the same. Whether environment can be a cause, a trigger or an amplifier of an autoimmune disease are questions that are being intensively investigated.
This is an informative study, thank you. The results prove an additional benefit of taking PC supplements in addition to supporting the memory and revitalizing motor skills. It is most likely a supplement that the majority of us should take, especially as we age.