https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2770-9082
Figures & data
Figure 1. Akkermansia muciniphila is involved in mucin production by goblet cells independent on type 2 immunity.
Intestinal epithelial cells trigger the production of type 2 cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13) in response to helminths. Mucus production by goblet cells is induced by type 2 cytokines. Type 2 immunity limits helminth infections and can result in their physical expulsion from the mucosal membranes where the helminth resides. In addition, the gut microbiota may contribute to mucus-producing goblet cell function during deworming. Although A. muciniphila cannot affect type 2 cytokines (IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13) production, A. muciniphila can improve intestinal mucin production, indicating the presence of an alternative type 2 immunity-independent mechanism for the mucin-promoting function of A. muciniphila. However, the mechanisms have not yet been elucidated.
Figure 2. Akkermansia muciniphila plays a role in protection against Trichinella spiralis infection.
In the left panel, infection with T. spiralis leads to helminth burdens, including adult worms and muscle larvae, and causes cardiac fibrosis. As shown in the right panel, treatment with A. muciniphila reduced the burden on adult worms and muscle larvae and ameliorated the severity of cardiac fibrosis induced by T. spiralis.
Data availability statement
All data are included in the manuscript.