Why do some people develop celiac disease, while others with a similar genetic makeup do not? Is there a way to prevent celiac disease? Researchers writing in the journal Science propose that the explanation may lie in an infection.
What Is Celiac Disease?
In celiac disease, eating foods containing the protein gluten triggers an immune reaction that damages the intestinal lining. Wheat, barley and rye as well as foods made with these grains have abundant gluten. The only treatment for celiac disease and its complications is to avoid gluten completely.
Could Celiac Disease Be Caused by a Virus?
Why do some people react so fiercely? The study showed that intestinal cells exposed to one specific type of reovirus respond to gluten, if it is present, by reacting strongly. The reovirus does not in itself cause disease symptoms. But exposure to this virus signals the immune system to treat gluten as an invader. This interaction seems to trigger the autoimmune response that leads to celiac disease later in life.
Vaccine Against the Virus That Triggers Celiac Disease:
That opens an intriguing possibility. If a vaccine could be developed against the virus, it might also prevent celiac disease. A simple shot might protect children from this lifelong condition of complete gluten intolerance.
