#South Korea #Seoul #obesity #diabetes #COREE

Introduction

On September 15, COREE announced a significant breakthrough in the field of medical research. For the first time globally, the company has identified specific microbiome biomarkers linked to diabetes and obesity. This landmark discovery was achieved in collaboration with esteemed research institutions from Italy, including Gemelli Hospital and the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore. The revelation marks a critical advance in understanding the role of microbiomes in chronic illnesses.

The Announcement

The groundbreaking findings were presented during the 38th Annual Workshop of the European Helicobacter Microbiota Study Group (EHMSG) held in Rome, Italy, from September 11 to 13. The event gathered over 500 researchers and clinicians, showcasing the latest advancements in microbiome research. COREE, led by Chairman Chong-Yoon Lim, was an official sponsor of the event, highlighting its commitment to innovative medical research. Among those representing COREE were CEO Sung-Jun Han, and various distinguished professors from South Korean universities, enriching the discussion on future medical innovations.

The Research Findings

During the workshop, Professor Lorenza Putignani from Sapienza University and Gemelli Hospital delivered the results of the pivotal clinical study. This research involved an analysis of clinical samples from 93 individuals affected by obesity and type 2 diabetes, alongside 45 healthy control participants. By utilizing metagenomic analysis of stool and saliva samples, researchers successfully identified distinct microbiome distribution patterns unique to those suffering from these conditions.

Significantly, the results revealed a notable decrease in the gut microbiome diversity among obese patients compared to healthy controls, with specific bacterial groups such as Clostridium sp. Q and CAG-74 emerging as potential biomarkers. Furthermore, in patients with type 2 diabetes, differences in oral microbiome distribution were discerned, identifying Parvimonas and Aggregatibacter as potential differentiators between patient and control groups.

Implications for Healthcare

COREE emphasized that this discovery is not merely a scientific accomplishment; it lays a crucial foundation for developing future diagnostic platforms, new therapeutic approaches, and advancements in fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT). Sung-Jun Han, CEO of COREE, articulated the potential of translating these findings into practical applications for early diagnosis and treatment efficacy predictions.

Drawing attention to the pressing health challenges faced by both Italy and Korea—both nations contend with low birth rates and an aging populace—Dr. In-Taek Lim, a former health ministry official turned research professor, remarked that this collaborative effort marks a starting point for innovative solutions addressing intergenerational health issues.

Future Directions

Looking ahead, COREE and Gemelli Hospital highlighted the importance of further research into microbiome health, particularly among pediatric and adolescent populations, alongside strategies aimed at mitigating age-related diseases. Their joint vision includes enhancing maternal and child health initiatives to confront declining birth rates and tailoring preventive healthcare strategies for the elderly population.

Professor Dae-Hee Kang from the Department of Preventive Medicine, Seoul National University, noted the inspiring nature of this achievement for the global scientific community, showcasing the future potential of microbiome and Helicobacter research as transformative therapeutic avenues.

Conclusion

The identification of these microbiome biomarkers could potentially revolutionize the approach to diabetes and obesity treatment, offering hope for improved patient outcomes and paving the way for innovative healthcare solutions. With ongoing research, COREE is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future landscape of medical diagnostics and therapeutics.