【科技日报】一种特定蛋白能精准识菌 助肠道免疫维持稳态

Core Insights - The research conducted by the Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health reveals the molecular mechanism of APOL9 protein's specific binding to gut microbiota, which plays a crucial role in maintaining intestinal immune homeostasis [1][2] - APOL9 protein acts as a "bacterial diplomat," inducing specific bacteria to release outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) that enhance the host's immune response [1][2] Group 1: Research Findings - The study published in the journal "Nature" highlights that APOL9 does not kill target bacteria but instead promotes the release of OMVs, which are rich in bacterial molecules that can be captured by the host immune system [1] - OMVs activate the interferon-γ signaling pathway and increase the expression of MHC-II molecules on intestinal cells, leading to the training of a specific type of T cells that maintain intestinal immune stability [1][2] Group 2: Experimental Validation - To validate the physiological function of APOL9, the research team created APOL9 gene knockout mice, which showed uncontrolled bacterial spread and increased mortality when infected with Salmonella [2] - Supplementing these knockout mice with OMVs significantly improved infection symptoms and enhanced immune responses, demonstrating the active role of host proteins in shaping beneficial immune reactions [2]