Evidence suggests that chronic low-grade inflammation is a risk factor for stress-related psychiatric disorders, including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and trauma- and stressor-related disorders, such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A number of studies demonstrate, for example, that biomarkers of baseline inflammation in active military personnel, prior to deployment, predict risk of development of PTSD subsequent to deployment. In addition, persons with PTSD have increases in plasma concentrations of biomarkers of leaky gut , such as lipopolysaccharide, a component of the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria, and lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP). At the same time, persons with PTSD have decreased numbers and function of regulatory T cells (Treg) and a higher risk of developing future autoimmune disorders, which overall suggests an impaired capacity to regulate inappropriate inflammation. Here we consider the hypothesis that increased inflammation in persons living in modern urban environments is due in part to a failure of immunoregulation, i.e., a failure to maintain a balanced expression of regulatory and effector T cells, a process that is dependent on microbial signals. In this talk, I will highlight preclinical studies showing that treatment with bacterial Old Friends , i.e., bacteria with which humans coevolved that have the capacity to induce anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory responses, can prevent stress-induced exaggeration of inflammation, neuroinflammation, and microglial priming, as well as promote stress resilience. I will also highlight ongoing Phase 1 and Phase 2b clinical trials to evaluate the effects of bacteria with anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties in United States Veterans with a diagnosis of PTSD.
- Provider:University of Wisconsin-Madison Interprofessional Continuing Education Partnership
- Activity Link: https://ce.icep.wisc.edu/node/46936
- Start Date: 2024-02-15 06:00:00
- End Date: 2024-02-15 06:00:00
- Credit Details: AAPA Category 1 Credit™️: 1.0 hours
AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™️: 1.0 hours
Nursing: 1.0 hours
Pharmacy: 1.0 hours
Psychology: 1.0 hours
Social Work: 1.0 hours - Commercial Support: No
- Activity Type: Enduring Material
- CME Finder Type: Online Learning
- Fee to Participate: No, it's free
- Measured Outcome: Learner/Team Competence
- Provider Ship: Jointly Provided
- Registration: Open to all