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be practical. But the gut has a native defense:
immunoglobulin A (IgA), which binds pathogens at
mucosal surfaces.

Researchers have developed plant-made versions of IgA
and IgY (its avian analog), expressed in lettuce or
duckweed, and administered orally to target pathogens like
E. coli, Shigella, and Norovirus. In one small-scale pilot,
travelers received a daily chewable dose of plant-expressed
IgA before and during visits to high-risk regions.

The results were striking: reduced incidence of diarrhea,
faster symptom resolution, and no systemic side effects.
The therapy didn’t require refrigeration, didn’t involve
antibiotics, and didn’t enter the bloodstream. It worked by
reinforcing the gut’s natural immune armor—one edible
antibody at a time.

Early Trials, Meaningful Outcomes

While most of these examples come from early-phase or
non-traditional studies, their significance is clear:

• The drugs were effective at the mucosal
interface, where many diseases originate.
• They avoided systemic exposure and immune
activation, a key advantage over injected biologics.
• They improved adherence and access, particularly
in populations for whom standard biologics are
impractical.
• And they showed early signals of immunologic
benefit, not just symptomatic relief.

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