Alessio Fasano

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Alessio Fasano

Alessio Fasano (pronunciation: Ah-less-ee-oh Fah-sah-no) is a renowned pediatric gastroenterologist and research scientist known for his groundbreaking work in the field of celiac disease, gluten intolerance, and intestinal permeability.

Etymology

The name Alessio is of Italian origin, meaning "defender". Fasano is a common surname in Italy, particularly in the Apulia region. The etymology of Fasano is not definitively known.

Biography

Alessio Fasano is the director of the Center for Celiac Research & Treatment at MassGeneral Hospital for Children. He is also a professor of Pediatrics, Medicine and Nutrition at Harvard Medical School and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

Contributions

Fasano's research has led to the discovery of the protein zonulin, which regulates intestinal permeability. This discovery has significantly advanced our understanding of many autoimmune diseases, including celiac disease and type 1 diabetes.

Fasano is also known for his work on the development of a vaccine, known as Nexvax2, for celiac disease. This vaccine is designed to desensitize the body to the toxic effects of gluten, potentially allowing those with celiac disease to consume a normal diet.

Related Terms

  • Celiac Disease: A chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the small intestine, caused by an adverse reaction to gluten.
  • Gluten Intolerance: A condition where the body has an adverse reaction to foods containing gluten, but not to the same degree as celiac disease.
  • Intestinal Permeability: Often referred to as "leaky gut," this condition is characterized by the weakening of the barrier in the intestines, allowing bacteria and toxins to pass into the bloodstream.
  • Zonulin: A protein that modulates the permeability of tight junctions between cells in the wall of the digestive tract.

External links

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