Cell Danger Response with Sandeep Gupta

The Cell Danger Response is a triggering mechanism that activates our body’s self defence mechanisms. Interestingly, mitochondria and ATP are central to this process. Mitochondria are able to sense and respond to changes in the cellular environment by sensing safety and danger. In this way, mitochondria act as fundamental regulators of the Cell Danger Response. 

When a cell encounters a toxin or pathogen it may begin to leak ATP into the bloodstream. This extracellular ATP is normally only found inside the cell and it initiates the first phase of the Cell Danger Response when released. Then, the mitochondria shuts down energy production and scrambles outside of the cell to signal the immune system.

Metabolism, inflammation, immunity, microbiome, brain function, sleep pattern and behavioural changes are activated by many different kinds of threats. These threats can be as diverse as an infection, poisoning, physical or psychological trauma, but still trigger the same sickness behaviour. At a cellular level, the Cell Danger Response cannot be turned off until the cell receives an “all clear” signal. Until then, the Cell Danger Response remains stuck in a repeating loop that blocks further healing in an attempt to eradicate perceived danger. This can lead to long-term suffering, disability and chronic disease. Only when a cell perceives safety can it heal completely.

Join Dr Sandeep Gupta as he explores the new science of Cell Danger Response, that connects environmental health with mitochondria and the rising tide of chronic illness.