Gut bacteria could play role in kidney autoimmune disease, study shows Theresa Gaffney By Theresa Gaffney March 27, 2024

https://www.statnews.com/2024/03/27/gut-bacteria-microbiome-kidney-autoimmune-disease/?utm_campaign=morning_rounds&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=300173672&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--iO05hUcMcEL7u9bT6BpdPaNfWt49KFFNp6SESiq15EzYTDkC9DqcFgIOxRqYHRSWQaSVH7wR20oU6Yn8UdGEFHN66VQ&utm_content=300173672&utm_source=hs_email Gut bacteria may play a role in a kidney disease We’re accustomed to the idea that a whole universe of microbes lives within us. But what are they doing? A new study implicates certain bacteria in the development of an autoimmune disease in the kidney. Writing in Science Translational Medicine, the researchers describe how these bacteria change antibodies inside us so much that the immune system thinks they are enemies. Then friendly fire leads to IgA nephropathy, an autoimmune disease of the kidneys, they conclude. The rare disease causes inflammation, blood in the urine, and potential kidney failure. The new research traces the bacterially modified antibody from the gut to the intestines, the bloodstream, and then the kidney. “We need to stop thinking about this passive, indirect effect of the microbiota on human disease and autoimmunity,” study author James Gleeson said. “And more start looking for the direct ways that bacteria could be modifying molecules in the human body.” STAT’s Theresa Gaffney has more.