Microbial Metabolite Regulation of Epithelial Cell-Cell Interactions and Barrier Function

Abstract

Epithelial cells that line tissues such as the intestine serve as the primary barrier to the outside world. Epithelia provide selective permeability in the presence of a large constellation of microbes, termed the microbiota. Recent studies have revealed that the symbiotic relationship between the healthy host and the microbiota includes the regulation of cell–cell interactions at the level of epithelial tight junctions. The most recent findings have identified multiple microbial-derived metabolites that influence intracellular signaling pathways which elicit activities at the epithelial apical junction complex. Here, we review recent findings that place microbiota-derived metabolites as primary regulators of epithelial cell–cell interactions and ultimately mucosal permeability in health and disease.

Effects of early post-hatch feeding on the growth performance, hormone secretion, intestinal morphology, and intestinal microbiota structure in broilers

“…Gastrointestinal epithelial cells are the main barrier between the body and the external environment, and can prevent hazardous substances such as bacteria and endotoxins from entering the bloodstream and participating in bodily circulation through the gut mucosa ( Ornelas et al, 2022 ). Meanwhile, the impenetrable connections between adjacent intestinal epithelial cells that make it impossible for massive molecules to pass through are known as tight junctions ( Van Itallie and Anderson, 2006 ).…”

A gut‐centric view of aging: Do intestinal epithelial cells contribute to age‐associated microbiota changes, inflammaging, and immunosenescence?

“…The microbiota and microbiota‐derived metabolites impact IEC activity and composition, which assist in relaying aberrations in intestinal homeostasis to the broader immune system (Ornelas et al, 2022 ; Peterson & Artis, 2014 ). The microbiota, its metabolites, and IECs undergo a host of changes during the aging process.…”

Potential Ability of Probiotics in the Prevention and Treatment of Colorectal Cancer

“…24 Goblet cells secrete mucus proteins that lubricate and protect the epithelial intestinal surface and act as antigen-presenting cells to deliver luminal antigens to dendritic cells (DCs), promoting the development of regulatory T cells (Tregs).Underneath the epithelial cells, the lamina propria containing innate and adaptive immune cells acts as the last line of defense for the intestinal barrier to protect the human body. 27,28 The gut microbiota of normal people can maintain the microbial homeostasis in the gut and play a certain role in preventing the occurrence of some diseases. However, in some diseases, dysbiosis of intestinal flora leads to damage of intestinal barrier resulting in intestinal diseases.…”