Estradiol mediates colonic epithelial protection in aged mice after stroke and is associated with shifts in the gut microbiome.

ABSTRACT: The gut is a major source of bacteria and antigens that contribute to neuroinflammation after brain injury. Colonic epithelial cells (ECs) are responsible for secreting major cellular components of the innate defense system, including antimicrobial proteins (AMP) and mucins. These cells serve as a critical regulator of gut barrier function and maintain host-microbe homeostasis. In this study, we determined post-stroke host defense responses at the colonic epithelial surface in mice. We then tested if the enhancement of these epithelial protective mechanisms is beneficial in young and aged mice after stroke. AMPs were significantly increased in the colonic ECs of young males, but not in young females after experimental stroke. In contrast, mucin-related genes were enhanced in young females

SUBMITTER: Lee J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10730206 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature