Commensal microflora contribute to host defense against Escherichia coli pneumonia through Toll-like receptors
2011
Gut Flora and Lung Defense Against Bacterial Infection
Sample size: 24
publication
10 minutes
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Tsay Tzyy-Bin, Yang Ming-Chieh, Chen Pei-Hsuan, Hsu Ching-Mei, Chen Lee-Wei
Primary Institution: National Sun Yat-Sen University
Hypothesis
Commensal microflora in the gut could increase lung inflammatory reaction through the toll-like receptors 4 (TLR4).
Conclusion
Gut flora enhances bacterial clearance against E.coli pneumonia through TLR4.
Supporting Evidence
- Antibiotic treatment decreased lung neutrophil activity and increased bacterial counts.
- LPS supplementation restored neutrophil activity and decreased mortality in treated mice.
- Commensal depletion increased E.coli pneumonia-induced mortality.
Takeaway
Good bacteria in your gut help your lungs fight off bad bacteria that can make you sick.
Methodology
Mice were treated with antibiotics to deplete gut flora, then exposed to E.coli pneumonia, with some receiving TLR4 ligands.
Limitations
The study was conducted on mice, which may not fully represent human responses.
Participant Demographics
Specific pathogen-free male C3H/HeN and C3H/HeJ mice.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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