University of Pittsburgh Medical Center

Dr. Oludotun Olusegun Adegoke Highlights Breakthrough Insights on the Gut-Brain Axis in Alzheimer's Progression MCKEESPORT, PA / ACCESSWIRE / December 10, 2024 / Dr. Oludotun Olusegun Adegoke, a renowned physician and researcher with an extensive background in medicine and clinical research, has shared his latest insights into the role of the gut-brain axis in Alzheimer's disease progression. As an advocate for innovative, holistic approaches to healthcare, Dr. Adegoke underscores the transformative potential of gut microbiota research in addressing the global challenge of Alzheimer's disease.With a distinguished career spanning primary care, medical research, and global health, Dr. Adegoke is no stranger to tackling complex medical issues. His work, including published research in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, has explored therapeutic targets for memory impairment. His latest focus on the gut-brain axis represents a critical step forward in understanding Alzheimer's, a condition affecting over 50 million people worldwide.The Gut-Brain Axis: A Paradigm Shift in Alzheimer's Research"The gut-brain axis is a fascinating and underexplored frontier in Alzheimer's research," Dr. Adegoke explains. "This bidirectional communication network between the gut and the brain has profound implications for how we understand and treat neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's."The gut-brain axis is mediated through neural pathways, hormonal signals, and immune responses, creating a dynamic link between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system. Emerging evidence suggests that disruptions in the gut microbiota-the community of microorganisms residing in the digestive tract-may contribute to the neuroinflammation and amyloid-beta accumulation observed in Alzheimer's patients.Gut Microbiota: A New Frontier in Alzheimer's ProgressionDr. Adegoke highlights key findings that connect gut health to Alzheimer's pathology:Microbiota-Driven InflammationDysbiosis, or imbalance in gut bacteria, can lead to systemic inflammation, which breaches the blood-brain barrier and triggers neuroinflammation. This exacerbates amyloid-beta deposition and tau protein tangles, hallmark features of Alzheimer's.Bacterial Influence on Amyloid-BetaSome gut bacteria produce amyloid-like proteins or release inflammatory components like lipopolysaccharides (LPS), which may accelerate the aggregation of amyloid-beta plaques in the brain.Metabolites and NeuroprotectionBeneficial gut bacteria produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that reduce inflammation and support neuronal health. A reduction in these SCFAs, often observed in Alzheimer's patients, underscores the role of gut health in disease progression."These connections provide a compelling rationale for exploring the gut as a therapeutic target," says Dr. Adegoke.Probiotic Therapies: A Beacon of HopeDr. Adegoke is optimistic about the role of probiotics in managing Alzheimer's disease. Probiotics, or beneficial bacteria, have demonstrated potential in improving cognitive function, reducing inflammation, and decreasing amyloid-beta deposition in preclinical studies."Targeted probiotic therapies could offer a non-invasive, accessible solution for Alzheimer's patients," he notes. Key probiotic strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium longum have shown promise in modulating the gut-brain axis and promoting brain health.While still in its early stages, clinical research on probiotics is yielding promising results. For example, a study found that Alzheimer's patients who received probiotics for 12 weeks experienced improved memory and cognitive function compared to a placebo group.Dietary Interventions: Simple Changes, Significant ImpactIn addition to probiotics, Dr. Adegoke emphasizes the importance of diet in supporting gut health and mitigating Alzheimer's progression. "A healthy diet can nurture beneficial gut bacteria, reducing inflammation and enhancing brain health," he explains.Dr. Adegoke highlights several dietary strategies:Mediterranean Diet: Rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, this diet promotes gut microbial diversity and reduces Alzheimer's risk.Prebiotics: Found in foods like garlic, bananas, and asparagus, prebiotics feed beneficial gut bacteria and boost SCFA production.Polyphenols: Antioxidant compounds in berries and tea support gut health and combat neuroinflammation.Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These essential fats, found in fish and flaxseeds, reduce inflammation and protect the gut-brain axis."These simple dietary changes could significantly improve outcomes for patients and those at risk," Dr. Adegoke says.A Career Dedicated to Advancing Medicine and Global HealthDr. Adegoke's insights are rooted in his remarkable career trajectory and dedication to improving global healthcare. Born on April 23, 1986, in Lagos, Nigeria, he cultivated his passion for medicine through a rigorous academic journey. After earning his MBBS with honors from the University of Lagos, supported by prestigious scholarships from Shell Nigeria and Total/Elf Nigeria, Dr. Adegoke expanded his expertise internationally with a Master's in Basic Biomedical Sciences from the University of South Dakota.During his residency at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, he focused on global health and served as Co-Chief Resident, further enriching his medical acumen through international rotations in Honduras and Kenya. These experiences shaped his commitment to addressing healthcare challenges in underserved communities.Dr. Adegoke's clinical skills span a wide range of procedures, including primary care ultrasound, Nexplanon insertions, and advanced cardiac life support, making him a versatile practitioner. His research contributions, including presentations at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference, reflect his dedication to advancing medical knowledge.The Bigger Picture: Gut Health for Overall Well-BeingBeyond Alzheimer's disease, Dr. Adegoke underscores the broader implications of gut-brain axis research for conditions like Parkinson's disease, depression, and anxiety. "Understanding the gut-brain connection opens doors to holistic approaches that can revolutionize how we view and treat various health conditions," he states.Dr. Adegoke continues to advocate for integrative medicine, combining gut-focused therapies with traditional treatments to achieve better outcomes for patients.Looking AheadAs Alzheimer's research progresses, Dr. Adegoke envisions a future where therapies targeting the gut-brain axis become a cornerstone of treatment. "We are on the brink of breakthroughs that could transform the lives of millions," he says.Through his expertise, dedication, and advocacy, Dr. Oludotun Olusegun Adegoke remains at the forefront of this exciting frontier in medical science. His commitment to advancing holistic healthcare and exploring innovative treatments exemplifies his lasting impact on the field of medicine.About Dr. Oludotun Olusegun AdegokeDr. Oludotun Olusegun Adegoke is a distinguished physician and researcher with expertise in family medicine, global health, and Alzheimer's disease. A graduate of the University of Lagos and the University of South Dakota, he has contributed extensively to clinical care, medical education, and research. With a passion for improving healthcare in underserved communities, Dr. Adegoke continues to drive innovation and advocate for holistic approaches to medicine.For media inquiries or further information, please contact:Oludotun Olusegun Adegoke email: [email protected]https://oludotunolusegunadegoke.com/SOURCE: Dr. Oludotun Olusegun Adegoke

Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine and BMI OrganBank are Key Partners in Stanford-Led Consortium to Advance Vision-Restoring Transplants WINSTON-SALEM, N.C., Dec. 4, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- A historic breakthrough in regenerative surgery is on the horizon, as the Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine (WFIRM) and BMI OrganBank partner with a Stanford University-led consortium to pioneer vision-restoring whole eye transplants (WET). Funded by the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) through the Total Human Eye Allotransplantation (THEA) program, this initiative aspires to transform the lives of millions affected by irreversible blindness. A Revolutionary Partnership to Restore Sight WFIRM and BMI OrganBank have been selected as key partners in the ARPA-H THEA Program titled "Viability, Imaging, Surgical, Immunomodulation, Ocular Preservation, and Neuroregeneration (VISION) Strategies for Whole Eye Transplantation". This multidisciplinary consortium unites top researchers, surgeons, clinicians, and industry partners, and is co-directed by Dr. Jeffrey Goldberg (Stanford University) and Dr. Jose Alain Sahel (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center). The program may receive funding of up to $56 million. Dr. Vijay Gorantla, a globally recognized authority in Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation (VCA) and Professor at WFIRM and Wake Forest School of Medicine, Department of Surgery, will lead a team addressing the surgical, technical and procedural aspects of human whole eye transplantation and the immunological hurdles and complexities of these unique transplants. BMI OrganBank, under the leadership of Dr. Varun Kopparthy, Vice President of Product Development, will adapt their proprietary organ and tissue-preservation devices to enhance donor eye viability for transplantation. "This initiative represents the ultimate frontier in regenerative surgery," said Dr. Gorantla. "Restoring vision through whole eye transplantation requires the seamless integration of advanced preservation methods, skilled, multidisciplinary surgical teams, innovative surgical tools, and robust, creative immunomodulation strategies that do not interfere with therapies for optic nerve regeneration. Together, we aim to achieve what was once considered impossible." Tackling Challenges: The Role of WFIRM and BMI OrganBank Unlike corneal transplants, whole eye transplants address the underlying causes of irreversible blindness, including retinal or optic nerve damage, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Success requires overcoming key challenges: regenerating the optic nerve to restore brain-eye communication, preserving viability of the donor eye before transplantation, managing immune responses to prevent rejection, and ensuring vision integrates seamlessly with natural ocular functions like blinking and focusing after transplantation. The WFIRM research team led by Gorantla, including Dr. Yalcin Kulahci and Dr. Fatih Zor, has conducted pioneering studies in rodent and pig models and human cadaver simulation, forming the foundation for future advancements in WET. Concurrently, BMI OrganBank's proprietary technology (BMI EyeBank™) will focus on extending donor eye viability, leveraging expertise in organ perfusion and transport. "We have developed leading research and clinical-grade platforms and solutions for preserving kidneys, livers and limbs and we look forward to bringing a first-in-class eye preservation platform into the clinic to help blind patients around the world," said Carrie DiMarzio, CEO. A Shared VISION for Innovation The VISION initiative exemplifies the power of collaboration, uniting expertise from institutions nationwide. Advanced surgical techniques and groundbreaking immunomodulation strategies will redefine possibilities in regenerative surgery. "This program is the culmination of decades of planning, research and development," Dr. Gorantla added. "Together with our esteemed partners, we are not merely aiming to restore sight—we are redefining the boundaries of regenerative surgery." This research was, in part, funded by the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H). The views and conclusions contained in this document are those of the authors and should not be interpreted as representing the official policies, either expressed or implied, of the United States Government. About Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine WFIRM is an international leader in translating scientific discovery into clinical therapies. The institute's groundbreaking work includes engineering laboratory-grown organs and developing healing cell therapies to cure disease. Learn more at school.wakehealth.edu/wfirm. About BMI OrganBank® BMI OrganBank specializes in developing cutting-edge perfusion systems for organ and tissue evaluation and preservation. With facilities at WFIRM in Winston-Salem, NC, and Research Triangle Park, NC, the company is advancing multiple proprietary medical devices that use its patented and proprietary technologies. Its flagship product, the OrganBank Transport device, was co-developed with Duke University's DEVOL lab and is set to launch soon. BMI is currently raising seed funding to accelerate its innovations. Learn more at SOURCE BMI OrganBank WANT YOUR COMPANY'S NEWS FEATURED ON PRNEWSWIRE.COM? 440k+ Newsrooms & Influencers 9k+ Digital Media Outlets 270k+ Journalists Opted In GET STARTED

THURSDAY, Nov. 21, 2024 -- From 2005 to 2021, alcohol-induced liver disease (AILD)-related hospitalizations and liver transplants (LTs) increased among women and men and in younger and older adults, according to a research letter published online Nov. 14 in the Journal of the American Medical Association . Vrishketan Sethi, M.D., from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, and colleagues examined trends in hospitalizations and LTs associated with AILD in the United States from 2005 to 2021. The patient population was stratified into younger and older groups (younger than 40 years and 40 years and older), excluding those younger than 20 years. The researchers found that per 100,000 individuals, the rates of AILD-related hospitalizations increased from 63.47 to 129.24 in women, from 186.84 to 301.72 in men, from 33.89 to 102.27 among younger patients, and from 177.93 to 273.48 among older patients, respectively, from 2005 to 2021. The greatest relative increases and mean annual percentage change (MAPC) were seen among younger women and younger men (relative increases, 283.21 and 169.07 percent, respectively; MAPCs, 8.93 and 6.34, respectively). Per 1 million people, the rates of AILD-related LT increased from 1.88 to 8.39, from 10.36 to 20.09, from 0.70 to 7.27, and from 9.23 to 17.78 among women, men, younger adults, and older adults, respectively, from 2005 to 2021. The highest relative increases and MAPCs occurred among younger women and younger men (relative increases, 2,283.96 and 683.54 percent, respectively; MAPCs, 19.71 and 14.84, respectively). "These findings highlight an important need to elucidate the biopsychosocial factors driving alcohol use and formulate preventive strategies targeted to younger individuals, especially females," the authors write. One author disclosed ties to the pharmaceutical industry.