The intestinal mucosa serves as a barrier thanks to tight junctions that allow selective passage of molecules.
However, some factors can affect its integrity and modify its tightness. Indeed, enterocytes will secrete zonulin, a protein responsible for the tight junctions separation.
Some factors favor the increased secretion of zonulin such as endocrine disruptors, pesticides, stress, intensive sport, gastric insufficiency, diet…
Thus, more enterocytes release zonulin, more tight junctions open and more intestinal permeability is important. This phenomenon is called intestinal hyperpermeability or leaky gut syndrome.
The intestine is altered, allowing the passage of undesirable substances which, in normal conditions, should not.
These harmful compounds will end up in the blood circulation and cause many disorders, such as inflammation.
LC
LC
Reference
Picture: Freepik
