Regulatory T cells are induced by gut microbiota through differentially regulating costimulatory molecules of enteric glial cells
Abstract
The interactions between gut microbiota and enteric glial cells (EGCs) are increasingly recognized. This study reveals that EGCs possess bacterial phagocytosis and antigen-presentation functions, which are modulated differently by various bacteria. Specifically, Bifidobacterium longum (B.l) relieves DSS-induced colitis by enhancing PD-L1 expression on EGCs and promoting Treg cell differentiation through EGC-mediated immune regulation. Understanding the dual role of EGCs as both neural and immune cells expands our comprehension of gut microbiota-neural-immune interaction in intestinal health.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Gut microbiota and health
Gastrointestinal motility and disorders
Probiotics and Fermented Foods
Publication details
- Journal / source
- American Journal of Physiology-Gastrointestinal and Liver Physiology
- Publisher
- American Physiological Society
- Volume
- 330
- Issue
- 5
- Pages
- G532–G548
- Publication date
- 19 February 2026
- Language
- EN