The Chemical and Social Landscape of the Modern World and Increased Risk of ASIA

The modern industrial world presents many health challenges with regard to long-term chemical exposure to common environmental agents. The widespread use of plastics and emulsifier food additives are thought to be the culprits behind the increased rates of chronic inflammation and autoimmune disease. The administration of rapidly developed and thinly tested novel vaccines containing adjuvants to a population currently experiencing a rising incidence of autoimmune disease will also likely increase reported cases of autoimmune/inflammatory syndrome by adjuvants (ASIA) in the near future. In parallel, early-life adversity (stress) causes epigenetic changes in stress response that have global physiological effects, including increased intestinal inflammation. Animal models are integral parts in the quest of researchers to understand the mechanisms that underlie links among chronic inflammation, stress sensitivity, and autoimmune disorders.