The role of mucoprotectants in the management of gastrointestinal disorders.

The role of mucoprotectants in the management of gastrointestinal disorders. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2017 Sep 26;:1-8 Authors: Eutamene H, Beaufrand C, Harkat C, Theodorou V Abstract INTRODUCTION: The intestinal barrier controls the absorption of nutrients and water whilst helping to prevent the entry of toxins and pathogenic micro-organisms from the lumen into the tissues. Deficiencies in the barrier are associated with various gastrointestinal and extra digestive disorders. Areas covered: This review provides an overview of the relationship between increased intestinal permeability and disease, and considers the role of mucosal protectants (mucoprotectants) in restoring normal intestinal barrier function, with a particular focus on diarrheal disorders. Expert commentary: Impairment of the intestinal barrier characterizes a variety of diseases, and there is ongoing interest in the development of pharmacological approaches targeting the reduction of intestinal permeability. These include corticosteroids, aminosalicylates and anti-tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), which act by reducing inflammation; probiotics, which modulate the production of mucin and epithelial tight junction proteins; and mucoprotectants, which form a protective film over the epithelium. Recently, preclinical and clinical data highlight, the ability of new mucoprotectants, such as gelatin tannate and xyloglucan, to protect the intestinal mucosa and to e...
Source: Expert Review of Gastroenterology and Hepatology - Category: Gastroenterology Tags: Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol Source Type: research