Clinical trial for coeliac disease treatment begins in Brisbane

A clinical trial is now underway at the Wesley Hospital in Brisbane to test a new treatment for coeliac disease. This autoimmune condition affects around 20% of Australians and causes severe reactions to gluten, which is found in wheat, rye, and barley. People with coeliac disease experience damage to their small intestine when they consume gluten, leading to problems with nutrient absorption. Currently, there is no cure for the disease, and the only effective treatment is a strict gluten-free diet. Symptoms of coeliac disease can vary greatly and include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, bloating, and fatigue. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health issues such as osteoporosis, liver and heart problems, and some cancers. Gluten can be found in many common foods like bread, pasta, and cereals, and even in less obvious items like beer and soy sauce. This makes it challenging for those affected to find safe foods and eat out. Dr. James Daveson from the Wesley Research Institute emphasized that managing gluten is difficult for coeliac patients. He noted that a gluten-free diet may not be as effective as previously thought, and the constant need to monitor food choices can be burdensome. The new treatment involves two doses of a molecule designed to reduce the immune response to gluten. Dr. Daveson explained that the therapy aims to turn off the immune cells that react negatively to gluten.