"This is reported as the first study to identify a specific bacterium that, when returned, helps alleviate lupus symptoms in an animal model."
Key Finding
Researchers at UT Health San Antonio have identified a link between the depletion of the bacterium Faecalibacterium prausnitzii in the gut microbiome and lupus. The study, published in Nature Communications, found that supplementing with this bacterium reduced disease markers in mouse models.
Study Details
- Lead Researchers: The research was led by Laurence Morel, PhD, and Yong Ge, PhD, of the Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine.
- The Role of F. prausnitzii: F. prausnitzii is known to produce butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that helps maintain gut barrier integrity.
- The Lupus Connection: In lupus patients, the bacterium is depleted, leading to reduced butyrate production and increased inflammation.
- Experimental Results: Reintroduction of the bacterium in mice partially restored immune regulation and had positive effects on kidneys and spleen.
- Not a Common Probiotic: The bacterium is not available in common over-the-counter probiotic products due to its oxygen sensitivity.
Significance
This represents the first study to identify a specific bacterium that, when returned, helps alleviate lupus symptoms in an animal model. The findings suggest a potential avenue for new treatments, though further research is needed.
Next Steps
The team plans to investigate metabolites linked to immune protection or inflammation, and to study interactions between diet, the microbiome, and the immune system.