Researchers in the US have had promising results in mice with a form of vaccination that could help prevent the immune system from reacting to the consumption of gluten for those with coeliac disease.
The experiment used ‘inverse vaccines’ which work by quietening the gluten-reactive T-cells that cause the immune system to attack the body, rather than alerting them as a regular vaccine would.
When tested in mice, they were more resistant to the usual effects of gluten, however, further tests are needed to ensure it works on different types of gluten and that it isn’t harmful to humans in the long term.
As there is no cure for coeliac disease, those affected must adhere to a strict gluten-free diet for the rest of their lives.
