The amount of a protective enzyme in the gut doesn't always match how leaky the gut is in fruit flies, suggesting other factors are involved.
Scientific Claim
The relationship between intestinal alkaline phosphatase activity and gut permeability is complex and not strictly correlated in Drosophila melanogaster.
Original Statement
“We did not observe a strict correlation between IAP activity and Smurfing (Figs 1A,B,E,G,H,K and 4A). However, aging and diet do both affect gut barrier function and IAP activity, suggesting that a complex relationship may exist between them.”
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 models without human randomization or control, so it can only show association, not causation. The language 'complex and not strictly correlated' 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