A Glucosamine-like dietary supplement suppresses the damaging autoimmune response seen in multiple sclerosis, according study. Michael Demetriou, Ani Grigorian and others at University of California ( UC ) Irvine, found that oral N-Acetylglucosamine ( GlcNAc ), which is similar to but more effective than the widely available Glucosamine, inhibited the growth and function of abnormal T-cells that in multiple sclerosis ( MS ) incorrectly direct the immune system to attack and break down central nervous system tissue that insulates nerves.

The study results are appeared in The Journal of Biological Chemistry.
Demetriou and colleagues discovered that environmental and inherited risk factors associated with multiple sclerosis converge to affect how specific sugars are added to proteins regulating the disease.

According to authors, N-Acetylglucosamine corrects a genetic defect that induces cells to attack the body in multiple sclerosis making metabolic therapy a rational approach that differs significantly from currently available treatments.

Virtually all proteins on the surface of cells, including immune cells such as T-cells, are modified by complex sugar molecules of variable sizes and composition. Recent studies have linked changes in these sugars to T-cell hyperactivity and autoimmune disease.

In mouse models of MS-like autoimmune disease, Demetriou and his team found that GlcNAc given orally to those with leg weakness suppressed T-cell hyperactivity and autoimmune response by increasing sugar modifications to the T-cell proteins, thereby reversing the progression to paralysis.

The study comes on the heels of others showing the potential of GlcNAc in humans. One reported that eight of 12 children with treatment-resistant autoimmune inflammatory bowel disease improved significantly after two years of GlcNAc therapy. No serious adverse side effects were noted.

Together, these findings identify metabolic therapy using dietary supplements such as GlcNAc as a possible treatment for autoimmune diseases.

Authors cautioned that more human studies are required to assess the full potential of the approach. GlcNAc supplements are available over the counter and differ from commercially popular Glucosamine. People who purchase GlcNAc should consult with their doctors before use.

Source: University of California Irvine, 2011

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