Bacteroides fragilis colonization induces protective systemic IgA.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Gut-educated IgA-secreting plasma cells that disseminate beyond the mucosa and into systemic tissues can help prevent disease in several contexts. Many species of bacteria have been described as efficient inducers of mucosal IgA, including the commensal bacteria Bacteroides fragilis (Bf); however, less is known about inducers of systemic IgA responses.

Results

Here, we show that the generation of bone marrow IgA plasma cells and high levels of serum IgA specific to Bf requires robust intestinal colonization. Bf-specific IgA responses were severely diminished in mice lacking Peyer's patches, but not mice lacking a cecal patch. Colonization resulted in few changes in the host transcriptional profile in the gut, suggesting a commensal relationship and minimal extrafo

SUBMITTER: Harris JR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12752218 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature