HowPetCare will dig into this article to explore the fascinating world of fecal transplants and how they are revolutionizing medicine. If you've ever wondered about the incredible healing power of poop, then you're in for a treat. In this article, we'll uncover the remarkable story of Eric, a research assistant at MIT, whose bowel movements are helping to save lives. So, why should you keep reading? Well, get ready to be amazed by the life-changing potential of a humble pile of poop!
The Journey Begins
Eric, a 24-year-old research assistant at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, finds himself answering nature's call in the middle of the day. Instead of using the countless toilets he passes, Eric embarks on a journey to a nondescript men's room 30 minutes away from MIT. Little does he know that this ordinary restroom holds the key to saving lives.
The Value of Healthy Poop
At OpenBiome, a small laboratory northwest of Boston, Eric's stool becomes a valuable commodity. OpenBiome has developed a groundbreaking method of turning poop from extremely healthy individuals into medicine for critically ill patients. Eric's “sample” is carefully weighed, and over the course of 2½ months, he has generated 10.6 pounds of feces, enough to produce 133 treatments for patients suffering from Clostridium difficile, a deadly infection.
Donating the Perfect Stool
To become a donor, Eric had to pass a rigorous 109-point clinical assessment. Factors such as obesity, illicit drug use, antibiotic use, and recent travel to high-risk regions could disqualify potential donors. Both Eric's stools and blood underwent extensive laboratory screenings to ensure he had no infections. Only 3% of prospective donors meet the strict criteria set by OpenBiome.
The Power of Fecal Transplants
So, why is Eric's poop so valuable? Inside our guts reside a hundred trillion bacteria, some good and some bad. When patients take antibiotics, the good bacteria can be wiped out, allowing harmful bacteria like C. difficile to thrive. However, the healthy microbes found in the guts of individuals like Eric can help combat these infections. Fecal transplants involve placing the healthy bacteria into the intestines of sick individuals, either through a colonoscopy or a tube in the nose.
The Astonishing Results
OpenBiome's poop donors have created around 5,000 treatments, with a remarkable success rate of 90%. Patients who receive these treatments often experience a transformational experience, going from experiencing severe symptoms to having normal bowel movements within a day. These life-saving treatments are distributed to over 350 hospitals in 47 states and cost $385 each.
The Process Unveiled
At OpenBiome's lab, technician Christina Kim demonstrates how she turns poop into a life-saving treatment. Using a carefully developed chart called the Bristol Stool Chart, which classifies stools into seven types, Kim determines if a donor's stool is suitable for processing. Only stools that fall within the ideal consistency range are used.
Eric's Contribution
Eric's stool, classified as type five on the Bristol Stool Chart, is deemed acceptable for processing. Kim collects his sample and adds a saline solution before placing it in a machine called the “jumbo mix.” After filtering out the fiber, what remains is a liquid filled with beneficial bacteria. This liquid is transferred into plastic bottles, with one bottle equating to one treatment.
Frozen for Future Use
Eric's 133 treatments are currently in quarantine inside a giant freezer at OpenBiome's lab. These frozen bottles contain cryogenically preserved bacteria at -112°F. The treatments will only be distributed once Eric passes a secondary healthy screening. The sight of his contributions frozen in the freezer leaves Eric in awe, realizing the impact his poop will have on people across the country.
Donating for a Greater Cause
Although Eric has earned around $1,000 from his donations, he emphasizes that the money is not his main motivation. He recognizes the importance of his contributions and is proud to play a part in saving lives. However, becoming a donor is no easy feat. OpenBiome receives thousands of sign-ups, but only a select few are chosen to become donors. The demand for these life-saving treatments far exceeds the supply.
FAQs
-
How does a fecal transplant work?
- A fecal transplant involves placing healthy bacteria from a donor's stool into the intestines of a sick individual. This helps restore the balance of bacteria in the gut and combat infections.
-
Can anyone become a donor?
- No, potential donors must pass a rigorous clinical assessment and meet strict criteria set by organizations like OpenBiome.
-
How successful are fecal transplants?
- Fecal transplants have an impressive success rate of 90%, with many patients experiencing a significant improvement in their symptoms.
-
How are fecal transplants administered?
- Fecal transplants can be administered through a colonoscopy or via a tube inserted into the nose.
-
How much do fecal transplants cost?
- Fecal transplants cost $385 per treatment and are distributed to hospitals across the United States.
-
Are there any risks involved in fecal transplants?
- Like any medical procedure, there are risks associated with fecal transplants. However, the benefits often outweigh the potential risks for patients suffering from severe infections.
-
Can fecal transplants be used for conditions other than Clostridium difficile?
- Yes, fecal transplants have shown promise in treating other conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome.
-
How long does it take to become a donor?
- The process of becoming a donor can be lengthy, with potential donors undergoing extensive assessments and screenings.
-
Are there any side effects of donating stool?
- Donating stool is generally safe and does not have significant side effects. However, donors must undergo regular health screenings to ensure their well-being.
-
Can individuals outside the Boston area become donors?
- Currently, OpenBiome accepts donors from the Boston area. However, other organizations may have different geographic requirements.
Key Points
- Fecal transplants are a groundbreaking medical procedure that uses healthy bacteria from donors' stool to combat severe infections.
- Eric, a research assistant at MIT, has become a valuable donor, contributing 133 treatments to help patients suffering from Clostridium difficile.
- OpenBiome's poop donors have achieved a remarkable success rate of 90%, with many patients experiencing rapid improvements in their symptoms.
- Fecal transplants cost $385 per treatment and are distributed to hospitals across the United States.
- Becoming a donor is a rigorous process, with strict criteria and extensive screenings in place.
- Donors play a crucial role in saving lives and making a significant impact on the lives of patients in need.
Remember, if you want to learn more about pet care or explore other fascinating topics, visit HowPetCare. It's your go-to resource for all things related to pets and animal welfare.