LPS and Gut Bacteria!

In general, we often think about the commensal bacteria as being beneficial to your health. Did you know that the bacteria in the gut microbiome can also contribute to systemic inflammation and disease? There is molecule called lipopolysaccharide (LPS) within the outer membrane of all gram-negative bacteria. LPS can be readily taken up into circulation where it acts as an inflammatory trigger (endotoxin). But not all LPS can trigger the immune system. Only LPS molecules with a structure containing at least six acyl groups are large enough to stimulate cytokine release – hexa-acylated LPS. On today’s episode, we discuss the LPS molecule, and more specifically hexa-LPS. What is it, how does it cause a problem, and more importantly, what can we do to prevent it from causing inflammation? Today on The Lab Report: 2:30 Gram-negative vs gram-positive bacteria 4:40 Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and systemic endotoxemia 7:05 Hexa-acylated LPS vs. LPS 9:55 Protecting the gut mucosal barrier 10:40 The role of dietary fat 12:15 Logical Speculation: Dietary saturated fats are not all created equally 17:15 Question of the Day? How do we measure LPS? Additional Resources: Intestinal Permeability Assessment GI Effects Stool Profile   Subscribe, Rate, & Review The Lab Report Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of The Lab Report, presented by Genova Diagnostics, with your hosts Michael Chapman and Patti Devers. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button and give us a rating or leave a review. Don’t forget to visit our website, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Email Patti and Michael with your most interesting and pressing questions on functional medicine: [email protected]. And, be sure to share your favorite Lab Report episodes with your friends and colleagues on social media to help others learn more about Genova and all things related to functional medicine and specialty lab testing. Disclaimer: The content and information shared in The Lab Report is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. The views and opinions expressed in The Lab Report represent the opinions and views of Michael Chapman and Patti Devers and their guests.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.