Interactions between the gut microbiota-derived functional factors and intestinal epithelial cells - implication in the microbiota-host mutualism

Mutual interactions between the gut microbiota and the host play essential roles in maintaining human health and providing a nutrient-rich environment for the gut microbial community. Intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) provide the frontline responses to the gut microbiota for maintaining intestinal homeostasis. Emerging evidence points to commensal bacterium-derived components as functional factors for the action of commensal bacteria, including protecting intestinal integrity and mitigating susceptibility of intestinal inflammation. Furthermore, IECs have been found to communicate with the gut commensal bacteria to shape the composition and function of the microbial community. This review will discuss the current understanding of the beneficial effects of functional factors secreted by commensal bacteria on IECs, with focus on soluble proteins, metabolites, and surface layer components, and highlight the impact of IECs on the commensal microbial profile. This knowledge provides a proof-of-concept model for understanding of mechanisms underlying the microbiota-host mutualism.

Automated summary

The mutual interactions between the gut microbiota and the host are crucial for maintaining human health and creating a favorable environment for the gut microbial community. Intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) act as the first responders to the gut microbiota in order to maintain intestinal balance. Recent studies suggest that components derived from commensal bacteria play a functional role in protecting intestinal integrity and reducing susceptibility to intestinal inflammation. Additionally, IECs have been found to communicate with the gut commensal bacteria, shaping the composition and function of the microbial community. This review highlights the beneficial effects of functional factors secreted by commensal bacteria on IECs, focusing on soluble proteins, metabolites, and surface layer components, as well as the impact of IECs on the commensal microbial profile. This knowledge provides a proof-of-concept model for understanding the mechanisms underlying the microbiota-host mutualism.