Thymol-Thymus vulgaris / IBI Cancer Research Results

Intestinal Barrier Integrity (IBI) refers to the functional integrity of the gut mucosal barrier, including epithelial tight junctions, mucus protection, antimicrobial defenses, and control of luminal antigen and microbial translocation. Loss of intestinal barrier integrity increases permeability, promotes endotoxin and cytokine-driven inflammation, and can sustain tumor-supportive signaling through NF-κB, STAT3, oxidative stress, and immune dysregulation. In IBD, barrier disruption is a core pathogenic feature that amplifies chronic mucosal inflammation and tissue injury. In cancer, especially colorectal cancer, persistent barrier dysfunction may contribute to initiation, progression, and a pro-inflammatory microenvironment, although in some treatment contexts increased permeability can also alter drug exposure or immune interactions. Agents that improve intestinal barrier integrity may be relevant in IBD-associated carcinogenesis and in reducing inflammation-linked tumor promotion.