An agency represents people whose looks don’t conform. Including those with vitiligo, an auto-immune disease which causes skin discolouration.
In its search for a cure, an American university team hit upon a carbohydrate compound. It was isolated from a gut-friendly bacteria called Bacillus subtilis.
During an 18-week study, vitiligo-prone mice were given weekly injections of these exopolysaccharides (EPS). The treatment strengthened regulatory T-cells and lessened the impact of harmful T-cells, preventing 74% of depigmentation.
Adapted as a health supplement or ointment, around 0.5%-2% of the world’s population – particularly those with darker skin – could also be freed from the emotional stress associated with the disease.
Probiotic bacteria makes coral stronger too, while oysters’ blood can help tackle antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
