Cause and effect relationship between obesity and gut microbiome

Global rises in metabolic diseases such as obesity and diabetes pose severe medical and socio-economic threats, influenced by a variety of both genetic and environmental factors. Chronic inflammation links these diseases, suggesting an impact on the immune system. The human intestinal flora, especially the metabolic products it produces, appear to play a role in the development of obesity and diabetes.

To understand the underlying mechanisms, our project utilizes innovative methods (gnotobiotics, metagenomics and metabolomics) to explore the relationship between gut flora, metabolism and immune function. By unraveling these relationships, we aim to lay the foundation for innovative strategies to prevent and treat these diseases.

Project team: Melanie Scalise, June Stone
Funding: SNSF

Unveiling the role of bacterial metabolites in dendritic cell function

The human gut microbiota, a complex and dynamic community of microorganisms residing in our digestive tract, plays a pivotal role in health and disease. Emerging research reveals a fascinating interplay between the gut microbiota, the immune system, and metabolism. The gut microbiome engages in a constant dialogue with immune cells, educating and regulating them, which in turn maintains gut health and guards against pathogens. This project aims to unravel the hidden mechanisms underlying the interactions between bacterial metabolites in the microenvironment and the activation of immune cells, by in particularly focusing on the impact of bacterial metabolites on dendritic cell metabolism and biological function. Preliminary data showed that bacterial metabolites are highly produced by bacteria expanding logarithmically and it can be sensed by DCs, fueling their activation. A lot of questions have still to be answered…

Project team: Andrea Celoria
Funding: SNSF