Megan Ciara Smyth

Exact aetiology of most autoimmune diseases is unknown. Genetic predisposition, environmental factors, microbiota dysbiosis and the gut–brain axis are known to interplay in autoimmune disease development. Arresting such interplay, by implementing a particular diet (such as the low FODMAP diet) or by consuming specific drugs (such as zonulin antagonists) for example, will reduce disease symptoms, reverse intestinal hyperpermeability and allow remission. The aim of this study was to investigate possible mechanisms of autoimmune disease aetiology and alterations in intestinal permeability, specifically in coeliac disease and type 1 diabetes mellitus. This was done by collecting researched evidence from journals and other publications. Understanding the pathology of the diseases and identifying the particular genes and triggers involved as well as improving investigative methods will potentiate the development of prevention and treatment therapies.