What is the Origin of Zonulin Pathway?

The term originates from gastroenterology and immunology, stemming from the discovery of the Zonulin protein and its regulatory role in mucosal barrier function. The concept of the 'pathway' describes the cascade of events from Zonulin release to tight junction opening.

What is the Mechanism of Zonulin Pathway?

Certain environmental triggers, notably gliadin (a component of gluten) and pathogenic bacteria, stimulate the release of Zonulin from intestinal cells. Zonulin then binds to its receptor on the cell surface, initiating an intracellular signaling cascade that leads to the breakdown of the actin filaments anchoring the tight junction proteins. This transient opening of the paracellular space allows large molecules and microbial products to pass from the gut lumen into the systemic circulation, thereby activating the immune system and contributing to systemic inflammation.

Zonulin Pathway

Meaning

A molecular signaling pathway centered on the protein Zonulin, which is the only known physiological modulator of intercellular tight junctions, primarily in the gut and also in the blood-brain barrier. When Zonulin is released, it triggers the disassembly of these tight junctions, increasing intestinal permeability, often referred to as “leaky gut.” This pathway is implicated in the pathogenesis of various autoimmune, inflammatory, and metabolic disorders.