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Highlights
Summary
A study examined the therapeutic potential of snail mucus enriched with carob extract, finding in animal models that it could reduce markers of colitis and inflammation, suggesting a novel approach to managing inflammatory bowel conditions using a food-derived bioactive ingredient.
A new study has looked at the therapeutic potential of mucus derived from snails fed different concentrations of carob.The research, published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, suggests that snail mucus enriched with carob extract 'could serve as an innovative approach for managing ulcerative colitis (UC) and other inflammatory disorders.'Inflammatory bowel diseases, including UC, are chronic conditions affecting the gut, characterised by persistent inflammation and oxidative stress.Finding novel therapeutic approaches is crucial, as current treatments can cause significant side effects, including gastrointestinal ulcers, liver and kidney problems, and immunosuppression.The focus of this study was on two elements: snail mucus, specifically from the Helix aspersa snail, and carob extract, from the Mediterranean Ceratonia siliqua tree.Snail mucus is already recognised for its beneficial compounds such as allantoin, mucopolysaccharides, and antimicrobial peptides, known for their moisturising, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and regenerative properties, used in therapeutics and cosmetics.It is also known to stimulate collagen and elastin synthesis, supporting wound healing, the researchers note.Meanwhile carob, particularly its pods and seeds, is rich in phytochemicals like polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, and polysaccharides, which contribute to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory,A closer look at cutting-edge science
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