Emeka Okeke

Sponsor: USDA 

Novel potato-derived peptide for the control of intestinal inflammation 

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, causes chronic gastrointestinal inflammation affecting over 2 million Americans, leading to significant morbidity and mental health impacts. Current treatments rely on immune suppression with notable side effects. Food-derived anti-inflammatory peptides offer a promising alternative. Researchers discovered a potato-derived peptide, TNKPVI, with potent anti-inflammatory properties. This project will investigate whether TNKPVI suppresses intestinal inflammation, identify its cellular mechanisms, and assess its ability to promote beneficial gut bacteria using mouse models and DNA sequencing. Results could transform IBD treatment and benefit other inflammatory diseases, while creating economic opportunities for potato farmers.