Impact of Nanoplastic Particles on Macrophage Inflammation and Intestinal Health in a Mouse Model of Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

Background: The increasing presence of plastics in the human diet is raising public concern about the potential risks posed by nanoplastic (NP) particles, which can emerge from the degradation of plastic debris. NP ingestion poses particular risks to individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), as compromised epithelial barriers may facilitate NP translocation.

Methods: In vitro, bone-marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) were exposed to 25 nm polymethacrylate (PMMA) or 50 nm polystyrene (PS) particles to assess morphological changes and alterations in pro- and anti-inflammatory gene expression.

SKAP2-A Molecule at the Crossroads for Integrin Signalling and Immune Cell Migration and Function.

Src-kinase associated protein 2 (SKAP2) is an intracellular scaffolding protein that is broadly expressed in immune cells and is involved in various downstream signalling pathways, including, but not limited to, integrin signalling. SKAP2 has a wide range of binding partners and fine-tunes the rearrangement of the cytoskeleton, thereby regulating cell migration and immune cell function. Mutations in SKAP2 have been associated with several inflammatory disorders such as Type 1 Diabetes and Crohn's disease.

Treatment of intestinal and liver features in cystic fibrosis mice by the osmotic laxative polyethylene glycol.

Background: Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease affecting multiple organs, primarily the lungs and digestive system. Improved pulmonary management significantly improved life expectancy of CF patients. As a result, extrapulmonary manifestations, including gastrointestinal and liver-related symptoms, have become more relevant.