Microbes are, more often than not, considered as bad microorganisms that are harmful to human. Not many people realise that microbes are essential in keeping your body running properly. For instance, intestinal bacteria (gut flora) is not only important for your digestive system, but also for your immune system. The latest research has shown that intestinal bacteria can help to prevent severe influenza infection by breaking down flavonoid. Flavonoid is a naturally occurring substance in plants.
For years, flavonoid has been known to have a protective function in human's immune system against infection. It also provides a defense to free radicals. There are numerous food groups that are rich in flavonoid, including oranges, berries, nuts, vegetables, and all kinds of tea.
Influenza is an infectious disease of the respiratory system caused by influenza virus. This disease, although common, can cause complications that may lead to mortality. People with a history of asthma and heart disease are more prone to influenza attack.
It is believed that a certain kind of intestinal bacteria called Clostridium orbiscindens works together with flavonoid to control the immune response. This bacteria degrades flavonoid to produce a metabolite called desaminotyrosine (DAT). DAT speeds up the signaling of interferon, a protein responsible for inhibiting virus replication. To confirm this, a study was conducted on mice. The first group of mice was injected with DAT then infected with influenza; the second group of mice got infected with influenza without getting DAT. The first group showed less lung damage compared to the second group, although both groups suffered from the same level of viral infection.
The scientists conclude that the combination of intestinal bacteria and flavonoid does not target the virus, but the response of the immune system. To be able to use this combination as a new strategy to prevent influenza would require further research.
Text by Anggie Triana
Stock photos from Google Search Image
Source(s):
- https://www.sciencedaily.com/
- Steed, A. L., Christophi, G. P., Kaiko, G. E., et al (2017). The microbial metabolite desaminotyrosine protects from influenza through type I interferon. Science (357):498-502