We often treat intestinal infections as short episodes. Yet for many patients, symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, and unstable bowel movements persist long after the pathogen disappears.

Researchers from Wroclaw Medical University, in a study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, show that during infection with Campylobacter jejuni, “leaky gut” is not a metaphor but a measurable disruption of the intestinal barrier.

The bacteria destabilize tight junctions — microscopic connections between epithelial cells that control intestinal permeability. Even after the infection resolves, this barrier may remain weakened, sustaining inflammation and prolonged symptoms.

In a colonic model, berberine demonstrated dual action: it limited bacterial growth and biofilm formation, while simultaneously protecting epithelial integrity and reducing permeability. Although further clinical studies are needed, the findings suggest that effective recovery from infection should focus not only on eliminating the pathogen, but also on restoring the intestinal barrier.

Among caregivers of older adults with multiple chronic conditions in Chinese rural areas, self-efficacy and family support were full parallel mediators of the relationship between caregiver burden and subjective well-being, accounting for 26.15% and 73.85% of the total indirect effect, respectively.

For years, scientists have worked to uncover how the brain responds to mechanical forces and electromagnetic waves. Computer models offer useful simulations, but they don’t fully capture what goes on inside a living brain. Now, the team from Mizzou’s College of Engineering is working to close that gap by developing 3D-printed models of an artificial human brain.

A research paper by scientists at University of Electro-Communications explored the long-term clinical outcomes of multi-degree-of-freedom myoelectric prosthetic hands.

Cannabis is increasingly normalized, but biology remains unchanged.
A review of 64 studies by researchers from Wroclaw Medical University shows that THC interferes with the endocannabinoid system — a key regulator of fertility, pregnancy, and fetal development.

THC affects the brain’s hormonal control centers, reproductive organs, and the placenta. In men, it is linked to poorer sperm quality and epigenetic changes; in women, to disrupted ovulation and impaired embryo implantation. During pregnancy, THC crosses the placenta, increasing the risk of low birth weight, prematurity, and neonatal complications, and is also present in breast milk.

There is no proven safe dose or safe form of cannabis. As legalization advances, the authors stress the need for clear guidance: avoiding cannabis when planning pregnancy, during pregnancy, and while breastfeeding is the safest choice.