How does gluten cause inflammation?

How does gluten cause inflammation?

In individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, gluten consumption can trigger an inflammatory response in the body. Here's how gluten can cause inflammation:

1. Activation of the Immune System:

- When an individual with gluten intolerance consumes gluten, the immune system mistakenly recognizes gluten as a foreign invader and launches an immune response. This response is typically mediated by T-cells.

- T-cells interact with gluten peptides in the small intestine and release pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and interleukin-2 (IL-2), which promote inflammation.

2. Intestinal Permeability (Leaky Gut):

- Gluten can damage the structure and integrity of the small intestine's lining, leading to increased intestinal permeability. This condition is often referred to as "leaky gut."

- Increased intestinal permeability allows undigested gluten peptides, bacteria, and other food components to pass through the intestinal barrier and enter the bloodstream.

3. Tissue Transglutaminase Activation:

- Tissue transglutaminase (tTG) is an enzyme found in various body tissues, including the small intestine.

- In gluten-sensitive individuals, tTG interacts with gluten peptides, modifying their structure and making them more resistant to digestion and removal. The modified gluten fragments can further trigger inflammation.

4. Production of Autoantibodies:

- The immune response to gluten can also lead to the production of autoantibodies. These antibodies target the body's own tissues, mistakenly recognizing them as foreign due to molecular mimicry.

- One type of autoantibody, anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies (anti-tTG), is commonly found in individuals with celiac disease and is a marker for the condition.

5. Chronic Inflammation and Damage:

- The ongoing inflammatory response to gluten can lead to chronic inflammation and damage to the small intestine.

- Inflammation can cause damage to the intestinal villi, which are finger-like projections that line the small intestine and are responsible for nutrient absorption. Damage to the villi impairs nutrient absorption and can lead to malabsorption and related symptoms.

It's important to note that not all individuals who consume gluten experience inflammation or adverse effects. The inflammatory response to gluten primarily affects individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, which is estimated to affect about 1% of the population worldwide.