UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA, LAS VEGAS

Phytic Acid in Plant Foods Activates HDAC3 to Strengthen Gut Barrier, Preclinical Study Finds

- A preclinical mouse study published in *Nature Communications* reveals that phytic acid (InsP6), found in beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, directly activates histone deacetylase 3 (HDAC3) to preserve intestinal barrier integrity. - HDAC3 activation by phytic acid suppresses genes that disrupt cell-cell junctions, preventing "leaky gut" and reducing colitis-associated inflammation, according to researchers at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. - The findings identify the InsP6-HDAC3 pathway as a potential therapeutic target for inflammatory bowel disease and other conditions linked to impaired intestinal permeability. - Researchers caution that the study is preclinical and dietary intake alone may not produce therapeutic effects; future clinical trials are needed to assess safety and efficacy in humans.