A study conducted by specialists from the University of Ferrara in Italy suggests that an extract derived from the meat of giant oysters may help suppress inflammation in intestinal cells and restore the protective barrier of the gut. The researchers presented their findings at the Society for Experimental Biology (SEB) conference in Florence.
During laboratory experiments, specialists initially induced inflammatory responses in intestinal cells using a specific signaling molecule, then treated them with an extract obtained from oyster tissues. Analysis revealed that the biologically active compounds in the extract were able to inhibit the signaling pathways responsible for triggering inflammation, while also reducing the activity of an enzyme involved in the development of inflammatory reactions.
After this treatment, the cells managed to restore the integrity of the intestinal barrier and achieve optimal tissue permeability. This was confirmed through electron microscopy.
The extract was prepared from the meat of giant oysters cultivated in the Sacca di Goro lagoon in Italy. The authors of the study explain that approximately 40% of the oysters grown there are discarded as waste each year. If this raw material were to be used in the production of dietary supplements, it would both reduce waste volume and create affordable means to support gut health.
The researchers add that so far, these results have only been obtained in laboratory experiments with cells. To confirm the extract’s effectiveness in humans, animal trials and clinical testing will be necessary.
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