By creating these HiMOs, Intrinsic Medicine aims to provide potential treatments for chronic illnesses by targeting the gut microbiome and immune system dysregulation. Their research on probiotics found in human breast milk offers a unique approach to combating diseases such as Parkinson’s Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
With a diverse background in healthcare, law, and biotech, Alex Martinez brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role as chairman, CEO, and co-founder of Intrinsic Medicine. His journey from growing up on a farm to advising healthcare startups to co-founding a research company dedicated to harnessing the therapeutic potential of human breast milk is a testament to his passion for making a difference in the world of health and wellness.
As Intrinsic Medicine continues to innovate and research the potential benefits of human milk oligosaccharides, the future looks promising for the development of new treatments for chronic illnesses. Martinez and his team’s dedication to creating human-identical milk oligosaccharides demonstrates their commitment to finding safe and effective solutions for patients in need.
Both of those compounds [2FL and 3SL] already have data in human beings showing that they’re extremely safe and well tolerated.” Each compound “has a whole host of preclinical data that shows disease-modifying effects… based on the biological fingerprint of each drug.”
2FL, otherwise known as 2’-fucosyllactose, is a type of complex sugar making up about 30% of human milk oligosaccharides. Intrinsic Medicine has successfully been approved for patient studies, had three FDA interactions, and are cleared to begin dosing their version of 2FL in Australia. Martinez reports it has been tested in “5 different models of Inflammatory Bowel Disease with wonderful effects. It worked in all different patients and in two different severe neurodegeneration models. With oral dosing after an injury, like a stroke or hemorrhage, it recovered motor function and increased brain drive” as well as improved the production of growth and development proteins.
Martinez explained he and his team looked at the data and said, “We certainly have a drug that’s compelling for IBS. And when we looked at the data, including effects on the neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation, we think we have a Parkinson’s drug.” There’s a “strong basis of evidence, including a massive epidemic study…that points to the fact that Parkinson’s should be evaluated as a gut-immune-brain-axis disorder.”
While this HiMO has the potential to treat IBS and Parkinson’s, there is also the possibility it could treat Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Martinez thinks, “There could be an autism application because 40 to 80% of people have a GI complication directly related to bowel movements. A lot of that reverse translational stuff… also is impacting behavior.” Martinez’s extensive background working with autistic individuals has helped him and his team connect some of the dots between gut environment and behavioral patterns.
In pursuit of developing another HiMO, the Intrinsic Medicine team have been researching causes for chronic illnesses such as rheumatoid arthritis and suspect the culprit might be chronic inflammation. Numerous chronic illnesses are caused by or worsened by chronic inflammation. Acute inflammation and regulated cortisol levels are normal and expected, but Martinez states that “cortisol is a great thing short term, but long term it flips all these biological switches the wrong way, and you have chronic toxicities. There’s all these super powerful immunosuppressants that are suppressing our immune system,” and the long-term effects can include certain cancers, strokes, and cardiovascular problems.
Intrinsic Medicine’s research in breast milk and HMOs led to a study focused on 3’-Sialyllactose, or 3SL. It is another sugar-based polymer found in human milk oligosaccharides that functions as a source of energy and a type of food for gut bacteria. The Intrinsic Medicine team is now testing and developing a second human-identical milk oligosaccharide modeled after 3SL, which is focused on treating chronic inflammation and, by extension, chronic illness.
Martinez continuously emphasizes what everyone can do to help themselves, especially those suffering from chronic illnesses and gut microbiome dysregulation. Instead of defaulting to a new drug, make some positive lifestyle changes and see how your health improves. He states that people need to “take an active role. Don’t be passive. There’s a lot that you can do today.” Taking control of your health starts with the two most important things, exercise and eating right.
Whole foods with “plant-based fibers do produce a lot of the benefits, including helping to restore a healthy microbiome” Martinez conveys. “Only 5% of American adults are at their dietary fiber goals. So, think about how many people that really just by changing their diet…can make meaningful progress.”
Exercise goes hand in hand with eating whole foods. “A lot of the interest in the gut microbiome is coming because of the strong association with neurodegenerative, cognitive decline disorders” and physical exercise. “It is out there in the scientific literature. It is one of the best things to do,” Martinez advises. “You don’t have to instantly become a cross fitter. Just get out and do regular mild to moderate, cardiovascular” exercise. “Just getting out there and doing something will produce benefit.” “Take that first little step, make it regular… and you’ll start to feel better.” Whether it’s dietary or exercise, “view it as a journey. View it as one that that everyone can do.”
“That’s… information that I want to kind of put out there.” Martinez says. “I don’t want people searching for a supplement or… saying when can I get …these magical drugs? There’s something that you can do right now. It starts in your own kitchen. And then if you’re still having a problem, I’ll meet you there. I’ll meet you there soon.”
“I want to create resources that people can empower themselves.” Martinez states.
The Future of Gut Health for Men
When it comes to delivering new medicines for gut health, it’s essential to meet men where they are in their health journey. Empowering men to take action on their own health through lifestyle modifications is key. And for those who still need assistance, there are safe and effective tools available to help them on their path to better gut health.
Dr. Alex Martinez, the founder of Intrinsic Medicine, is at the forefront of groundbreaking research in gut health. With a unique perspective on the microbiome, he believes that the future of medicine lies in understanding and harnessing the power of our gut bacteria. Intrinsic Medicine is leading the way in this new wave of medicine, focusing on transformative solutions for men’s health.
As a former patient himself, Dr. Martinez understands the importance of patient care and empowerment. Intrinsic Medicine is not just a pharmaceutical company; it’s a patient solution company dedicated to improving men’s health. By empowering men to take control of their health and providing innovative solutions, Intrinsic Medicine is changing the landscape of healthcare.
Stay updated on the groundbreaking research and advancements in gut health by visiting intrinsicmedicine.com. Join the movement towards better gut health and wellness for men.
References:
- 2’-FL: Boosting Gut Health with Human Milk Oligosaccharides
- What are 3’-Sialyllactose (3’SL) and 6’-Sialyllactose (6’SL)? – Layer Origin Nutrition
- Oligosaccharides: Foods List, Benefits, and More
- Human Milk Oligosaccharides: Health Benefits, Potential Applications in Infant Formulas, and Pharmacology – PMC
- What are Cytokines? Types & Function
- Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors – NCI