Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic gastrointestinal disease characterized by inflammation and ulcerations in the lining of the large intestine. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloody stools, typically following a cycle of relapse and remission.
While the exact cause remains unknown, it is believed that abnormal immune responses and disturbances in the gut environment play a significant role. The condition affects a wide range of age groups, from young adults to the elderly, and the prevalence in Japan is on the rise.
Because UC can be exacerbated by factors such as stress and diet, effective treatment requires lifestyle adjustments alongside pharmacological inflammation control. Drug therapies typically include 5-ASA formulations, steroids, immunomodulators, and biological agents, tailored to the severity of symptoms.
In recent years, new approaches that regulate the gut environment as a complement to drug therapy have gained attention, most notably Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT) using NanoGAS®-FMT.
Characteristics of Intestinal Flora and Treatment Strategy for UC
In a healthy gut, hundreds of bacterial species coexist in a balanced ecosystem.
However, in ulcerative colitis, this balance is disrupted; beneficial bacteria decrease, creating a pro-inflammatory environment.
When the alpha/beta diversity of intestinal flora decreases, the immune system overreacts, making the intestinal mucosa more vulnerable to damage.
Clinical studies have confirmed that the gut microbiome of UC patients tends to show a decrease inBacteroides and Firmicutes, while pro-inflammatory bacteria increase. These changes in bacterial composition are difficult to fully rectify with medication alone, which often leads to relapse.
With NanoGAS®-FMT, we aim to maintain long-term remission while regulating the balance of intestinal flora and preventing recurrence. Unlike conventional FMT, NanoGAS®-FMT is gentle on the intestinal tract and offers a high safety profile.
Reports from both Japan and overseas have shown cases where symptoms were stabilized and medication dosages reduced through a combination of drug therapy and Fecal Microbiota Transplantation.
In the treatment of UC, it is crucial not only to “suppress” inflammation but also to “bolster the gut’s innate ability to maintain stability.”
Restructuring the gut environment represents a promising new option for this purpose.
Long-term Remission Strategy for UC via Fecal Microbiota Transplantation
Ulcerative colitis is a disease marked by alternating “remission periods,” when symptoms subside, and “relapse periods,” when they flare up.
With NanoGAS®-FMT, we aim to prevent these flares and maintain long-term intestinal stability (long-term remission).
Relapses often occur because the gut environment remains inherently unstable, even if bacterial balance is temporarily improved.
Therefore, NanoGAS®-FMT emphasizes not just “introducing bacteria” but fostering an environment where the gut can self-regulate.
Specifically, we provide comprehensive care, including post-transplantation diet, daily routines, and stress management, to ensure that the transplanted bacteria can colonize and thrive.
A key feature of NanoGAS®-FMT is the preparation of the bacterial solution using an aqueous solution containing nano-level fine bubbles. This effectively maintains an anaerobic environment and increases the survival rate of the transplanted bacteria.
This method is less taxing on the intestines than conventional FMT and is designed to promote intestinal mucosal repair, supporting long-term recovery.
Furthermore, intestinal flora data obtained through treatment is analyzed by The Association for Clinical Research of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation Japan to scientifically identify which bacterial groups contribute to maintaining remission.
In this way, NanoGAS®-FMT is a comprehensive treatment that tackles UC through a “three-pronged approach” of clinical practice, research, and lifestyle support.
Flow of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT) for Ulcerative Colitis (UC)
NanoGAS®-FMT is conducted safely under the supervision of a physician.
The general flow is as follows:
- Initial Consultation and Examination
We confirm symptoms and medical history to determine eligibility for FMT. Following this, a general blood test and Intestinal Flora Balance Test are performed. - Treatment Plan and Nutritional Guidance
We determine the number and timing of transplants based on the degree of inflammation and physical condition.
At the same time, we provide nutritional guidance and lifestyle advice to regulate the gut environment. - Implementation of NanoGAS®-FMT
The transplant is performed into the intestine using a specialized bacterial solution. It is a minimally invasive method and can be safely performed on an outpatient basis.
After the procedure, patients log their dietary records and changes in physical condition for several days. - Follow-up
We monitor changes in intestinal flora and symptoms at intervals such as 2 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months post-transplant.
If symptoms remain stable, we aim to maintain remission while extending the treatment intervals at the physician’s discretion.
FMT does not typically yield immediate effects like conventional medication; instead, symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain gradually decrease, and physical strength recovers as the gut environment stabilizes.
“Cultivating a stable gut environment” after treatment is the key to long-term improvement.
Medical Institutions Offering FMT for Ulcerative Colitis (UC)
NanoGAS®-FMT is performed at affiliated medical institutions belonging to The Association for Clinical Research of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation Japan. For example, the following institution provides comprehensive counseling based on the progression of ulcerative colitis:
Shirotani Bio-Wellness Clinic (Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture)
Specializing in nutritional therapy and immunotherapy, they perform procedures focused on the relationship between the gut environment and overall systemic health.
At all affiliated medical institutions, bacterial solutions manufactured at specialized facilities according to a common protocol are used.
If you wish to receive treatment, please first consult with a physician to confirm eligibility according to your symptoms and medical history.
Please also see the guide for affiliated medical institutions for a list of clinics nationwide.
You can search by region or clinical department. (Link: https://fmt.sym-biosis.co.jp/transplantation/partner)
For fee estimates and information on non-insured treatments, please refer to the page on transplant costs.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Ulcerative Colitis (UC)
Q: How long does it take to see results?
A: While individual results vary, many patients notice changes in bowel movements and abdominal pain 1 to 3 months after FMT.
The speed of recovery depends on the severity of symptoms and the extent of inflammation.
Q: Is it okay to stop the transplants midway?
A: We do not recommend discontinuing treatment without medical advice.
NanoGAS®-FMT is designed as a complementary approach to support current treatments. Under the guidance of a physician, the interval and number of procedures will be adjusted while monitoring symptom progression.
Ulcerative Colitis (UC) Resources and Materials
The latest insights on ulcerative colitis and intestinal flora are available in the following columns:
- Essential Knowledge: The Gut and Immunity (Link to be added)
- Selecting the Best Yogurt for Ulcerative Colitis (Link to be added)
- Safety data and clinical results for NanoGAS®-FMT can be found in the Clinical Study Report (UC Edition). (Link)
Summary: Ulcerative Colitis (UC)
In the treatment of ulcerative colitis, the key to preventing relapse is not only “controlling inflammation” but also supporting the gut’s own power to regain stability.
NanoGAS®-FMT is a new option to unlock that power.
When considering treatment, please start by consulting with a specialized medical institution.
Regulating the gut environment may be the first step toward regaining your quality of life.
