La Clínica and CIMA are studying the use of probiotics to improve metabolism in patients with porphyria

The Clinic and the University of Navarra CIMA initiated a pioneering study (PROPAI) on the use of oral probiotics and postbiotics to improve the imbalance of glucose metabolism in patients with acute intermittent porphyria.a rare disease that is characterized by attacks of abdominal pain, mental changes and neurological disorders.

After experimenting with preclinical models, the researchers aim to go further and offer therapeutic alternatives to these patients “who suffer from significant changes in carbohydrate metabolism that cause insulin resistance, prediabetes and diabetes. In studies conducted on mice We have noticed that some probiotics can normalize these changes. Our goal now is to translate these discoveries to humans.“, as explained Dr. Isabel SolaresInternist at the University of Navarra Clinic and responsible for consultations on rare diseases.

This study represents another step in the development of innovative precision treatments for people suffering from this inherited disease. “At CIMA we are committed to this type of treatment using therapeutic RNA for diseases such as porphyria. Specific, In our laboratory, we tested the therapeutic efficacy and safety of messenger RNA administration in various experimental models of acute porphyria.“explains Dr. Antonio FontanellasPrincipal Investigator of the CIMA Hepatology Research Group: Porphyrias and Carcinogenesis.

The name porphyria combines seven rare diseases, most of which are hereditary, causing defects in the function of proteins involved in the metabolism of heme, an essential substance produced in the liver. Despite the low incidence and lack of cure for porphyria, research has led to advances in treatments that significantly improve the quality of life for these patients, their families and caregivers.

“Porphyrias are chronic diseases that can affect various organs and also have important psychological and quality of life effects,” explains Dr. Dr. Delia D’Avolaspecialist in hepatology and internal medicine at the clinic. An adequate therapeutic approach to the disease requires the work of “an integrated multidisciplinary team capable of preventing and treating acute outbreaks of the disease, and improving the quality of life of these patients.”“, keep going. In the context of rare diseases, this interaction becomes even more important, “given resource constraints and small patient numbers, requiring the integration of clinical data, results and efforts.”

Master class on emotions and art with an integrated approach to the patient

The University of Navarra Clinic, together with CIMA and the Spanish Porphyria Association, organized the first workshop “Emotions and Art”, an initiative aimed at addressing the emotional and social sphere of people suffering from porphyria. creating a space for self-expression and support for both patients and their families and caregivers.

As Dr. Isabel Solares emphasizes, “Many patients with a minority disease experience feelings of loneliness, helplessness and misunderstanding. Through activities like these, we try to help them develop emotional connections and mutual support.“

Dr. Fontanellas emphasizes that “we are developing a series of practical workshops focused on different thematic areas to stimulate social interaction and contribute to significant improvements in the physical and psychological well-being of patients with porphyria and their immediate environment, as we know the importance” that relationships have in improving quality of life for those suffering from this rare disease.”