Physical capacity modulates intestinal barrier dysfunction in functional disorders: phenotype-specific patterns in fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Intestinal barrier dysfunction is increasingly implicated in the pathophysiology of fibromyalgia (FM) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), particularly in their comorbid form. Physical capacity (PC) influences systemic inflammation and metabolic resilience, but its relationship with gut barrier integrity in these conditions remains poorly defined.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study of 56 patients with FM (n = 14), IBS (n = 23), or both (FM + IBS, n = 19). Intestinal barrier function was assessed using serum and fecal zonulin, intestinal fatty acid-binding protein (I-FABP), and the lactulose/mannitol (Lac/Man) urinary excretion test. PC was quantified using the Global Physical Capacity Score (GPCS). Clinical symptoms were evaluated using the Fibromyalgia I

SUBMITTER: Russo F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12604992 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature