151. How plant defense chemicals may trigger autoimmunity. Is Nicotinamide Riboside BS? Is spirulina BS?

Amino Acids

Non-protein amino acids, often overlooked, play a significant role in plant defense mechanisms and may contribute to human diseases. Paul Saladino highlights how these amino acids, such as Aze and L-Dopa, can accumulate in the body, potentially leading to protein misfolding and neurodegenerative diseases 1. He explains that plants use these compounds to deter predators, and when consumed, they might interfere with human protein synthesis 2.

Plants do not want their seeds to be eaten. There are many defense chemicals. This is just one of them.

--- Paul Saladino

This interference could be a factor in conditions like ALS and Parkinson's, suggesting a need for further investigation into dietary sources of these amino acids.

   

Plant Toxins

Plant toxins, such as azetidine-2-carboxylic acid (Aze), may contribute to autoimmune disorders like multiple sclerosis. Paul Saladino discusses the hypothesis that Aze can misassemble proteins in the myelin sheath, potentially leading to neurodegeneration 3. He also notes the association between alfalfa consumption and lupus-like symptoms, highlighting the role of plant-derived amino acids in immune dysfunction 4.

This report reviews evidence supporting the hypothesis that the ingestion of AZ in the diet in conjunction with genetic susceptibility may predispose or contribute to the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis.

--- Paul Saladino

These insights suggest that common dietary plants might have hidden impacts on immune health.

   

Neurodegeneration

The potential link between plant compounds and neurodegenerative diseases is a growing area of interest. Paul Saladino explores how non-protein amino acids might contribute to conditions like Parkinson's by causing protein aggregation in the brain 5. He questions the use of L-Dopa in treatment, as it may exacerbate protein misfolding despite its short-term benefits 6.

We make the case that the insidious entry of non protein amino acids into the human food chain and the incorporation of the protein might be contributing significantly to neurodegenerative damage.

--- Paul Saladino

This perspective urges a reevaluation of dietary habits and pharmaceutical approaches to managing neurodegenerative diseases.