A common food additive called titanium dioxide nanoparticles doesn't seem to make the gut more leaky in fruit flies or human gut cells in a lab setting.
Scientific Claim
Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (a common food additive) showed minimal effects on intestinal permeability in both Drosophila melanogaster and human intestinal cell co-cultures.
Original Statement
“TiO2 NP had minor and variable effects on intestinal permeability and survival when tested using our in vivo Drosophila feeding conditions (Figs 1C,D and 3C,D). Similar results were seen in the in vitro model, with no change in permeability upon exposure to TiO2 (Fig. 2A).”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
appropriately stated
Study Design Support
Design supports claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
The study used animal and in vitro models without human randomization or control, so it can only show association, not causation. The language 'associated with' appropriately reflects the study design.
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
Effect of dietary additives on intestinal permeability in both Drosophila and a human cell co-culture