Therapeutic interventions targeting enteropathy in severe acute malnutrition modulate systemic and vascular inflammation and epithelial regeneration

2024

New Treatments for Severe Acute Malnutrition in Children

Sample size: 122 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Sturgeon Jonathan P., Mutasa Kuda, Bwakura-Dangarembizi Mutsa, Amadi Beatrice, Ngosa Deophine, Dzikiti Anesu, Chandwe Kanta, Besa Ellen, Mutasa Batsirai, Murch Simon H., Hill Susan, Playford Raymond J., VanBuskirk Kelley, Kelly Paul, Prendergast Andrew J., TAME Trial Team

Primary Institution: Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe

Hypothesis

Can novel interventions targeting malnutrition enteropathy improve inflammation and tissue repair in children with severe acute malnutrition?

Conclusion

The study found that interventions like budesonide and colostrum can reduce inflammation and improve markers of tissue repair in children with severe acute malnutrition.

Supporting Evidence

Budesonide reduced systemic inflammation markers like CRP and CD163.
Colostrum improved epithelial barrier function and increased GLP-2 levels.
N-acetylglucosamine increased biomarkers of epithelial regeneration.
Teduglutide showed positive effects on intestinal inflammation.
Interventions demonstrated an interplay between inflammation and tissue repair.
Children receiving treatments had better outcomes compared to standard care.
Inflammatory markers remained high in children with severe acute malnutrition.
Further trials are needed to confirm long-term benefits of these interventions.

Takeaway

This study tested new treatments for very sick children who are not getting enough food. Some treatments helped reduce inflammation and helped the body heal.

Methodology

The study was a phase II multi-centre trial where 122 children with severe acute malnutrition were randomized to receive one of four interventions for 14 days.