(Ivanhoe Newswire) – Inhaling a dangerous gas could treat a common
diabetic condition.
Carbon monoxide inhalation can lead to brain damage or death. But in a recent
study, researchers report inhaling very low doses of the gas reversed
gastroparesis, delayed stomach emptying. The painful condition is a common
complication for many diabetic patients, causing pain, nausea, vomiting, stomach
spasms, weight loss and difficulty maintaining a proper blood glucose level.
Diabetic mice with the gastric condition were exposed to carbon monoxide (100
parts per million) for six hours daily. Within three weeks, gastroparesis was
reversed and oxidative stress decreased.
"This is a significant finding, as it shows that loss of the enzyme that makes
carbon monoxide is the actor in this process and that it provides us with a
clear approach toward a possible new therapy for this condition," Gianrico
Farrugia, M.D., Mayo Clinic gastroenterologist and lead investigator on the
study, was quoted as saying.
SOURCE: Presented at Digestive Disease Week in Chicago, June 1, 2009.
