What is the Origin of Larazotide Zonulin Inhibition?

The term stems from research identifying zonulin as the key endogenous regulator of intestinal tight junctions and the subsequent development of a targeted inhibitor. Larazotide acetate was specifically engineered to block the action of zonulin on its receptor, leading to a direct pharmacological means of gut barrier stabilization. This represents a precision approach to managing gastrointestinal barrier dysfunction.

What is the Mechanism of Larazotide Zonulin Inhibition?

Larazotide acetate competitively binds to the specific receptor site for zonulin on the surface of enterocytes, effectively blocking zonulin's ability to trigger the disassembly of the tight junction complex. By preventing this disassembly, the paracellular pathway remains closed, significantly reducing the pathological passage of macromolecules and antigens from the gut lumen into the underlying tissue. This targeted inhibition supports epithelial integrity and reduces the systemic inflammatory cascade initiated by "leaky gut."

Larazotide Zonulin Inhibition ∞ Area

Larazotide Zonulin Inhibition

Meaning

This refers to the specific pharmacological action of the synthetic octapeptide Larazotide acetate, which functions as a direct antagonist of the zonulin signaling pathway. Zonulin is a protein that reversibly regulates the permeability of intestinal tight junctions; its inhibition prevents the opening of these junctions, thereby maintaining or restoring gut barrier integrity. This therapeutic strategy is clinically relevant for conditions characterized by increased intestinal permeability and systemic immune activation.