According to a new study conducted by an international research group from the Universities of Oulu and Tampere, an experimental drug may offer a completely new protection mechanism for patients with celiac disease in the future. Scientists conclude that the medication effectively suppresses the harmful effects of gluten both in the gastrointestinal tract and throughout the entire body.
Mechanism of Action: Blocking TG2
The experimental drug, named ZED1227, blocks the activity of the enzyme transglutaminase 2 (TG2) in the body. This enzyme modifies gluten in a way that triggers severe inflammatory processes in those with celiac disease. By blocking the enzyme, the medication significantly reduces the immune response provoked by gluten.
From Local to Systemic Protection
This work, published in the journal BMC Medicine, builds upon a 2024 study printed in Nature Immunology, where the same authors proved that the TG2 inhibitor effectively protects the mucosa of the small intestine from damage. However, the latest study has demonstrated the drug’s systemic effect at the whole-body level for the first time.
Clinical Trial Results
The clinical trial involved adult patients with celiac disease who had been following a long-term gluten-free diet. For six weeks, they were given small amounts of gluten accompanied by either the experimental drug or a placebo.
Analysis of blood and intestinal tissue samples showed:
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Placebo Group: Gluten caused distinct changes in lipid metabolism.
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Medication Group: These processes were almost completely prevented.
The drug also restored blood protein and epigenetic profiles (including DNA methylation) to the levels observed during a strict gluten-free diet.
Scientific Significance
According to the study’s authors, this is a scientifically vital discovery proving that the drug’s protective effect extends beyond the intestines to include a full immunometabolic response.
Scientists estimate that in the future, this medication could successfully supplement traditional treatment—especially for patients who accidentally ingest gluten or those whose symptoms persist despite a strict diet.
