Oral NaHCO3 activates a splenic anti-inflammatory pathway; evidence cholinergic signals are transmitted via mesothelial cells
Overview
Paper Summary
This study, conducted primarily in rats, suggests that oral intake of baking soda can reduce inflammation by activating an anti-inflammatory pathway in the spleen. It also found a similar effect in a small human trial, albeit with differing baseline inflammatory markers between groups. The study proposes a novel mechanism for this effect involving mesothelial cells, which appear to transmit signals like neurons.
Explain Like I'm Five
Baking soda might help reduce inflammation throughout the body by triggering the spleen's anti-inflammatory response. This process may involve a new type of signaling pathway involving mesothelial cells.
Possible Conflicts of Interest
None identified
Identified Limitations
Rating Explanation
This is a well-designed study with a strong methodology and compelling results in both rats and humans. The novel finding regarding mesothelial signaling is significant, though further investigation is needed to confirm the mechanism. The limitations of differing baseline levels in the human study and the potential confounding effects of the sham splenectomy lower the rating slightly.
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