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In Vitro and In Vivo Approaches to Determine Intestinal Epithelial Cell Permeability
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Published on: October 19, 2018

Functional characterization of MIMP for its adhesion to the intestinal epithelium

Zhihua Liu1, Tongyi Shen, Hongqi Chen

  • 1Department of Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, China.

Frontiers in Bioscience (Landmark Edition)
|May 31, 2011
PubMed

Insights

The micro integral membrane protein (MIMP) from Lactobacillus plantarum reduces intestinal permeability and inflammation. It interacts with dendritic cells to promote anti-inflammatory responses, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for intestinal diseases.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Immunology
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • The micro integral membrane protein (MIMP) of Lactobacillus plantarum adheres to mucin and inhibits pathogenic E. coli.
  • Understanding MIMP's broader functional roles is crucial for its therapeutic potential.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate MIMP's effects on intestinal barrier function and immune responses.
  • To characterize MIMP's interaction with dendritic cells (DCs) and its impact on colitis.

Main Methods:

  • In vitro and in vivo models were used to assess intestinal permeability and tight junction (TJ) protein expression.
  • Interaction of MIMP with immature DCs and their cytokine production was analyzed.
  • Effects of MIMP on colonic mucosa and colitis in IL-10(-/-) mice were evaluated.

Main Results:

  • MIMP reduced intestinal permeability and restored TJ protein expression in cell monolayers and IL-10(-/-) mice.
  • MIMP bound to immature DCs via DC-SIGN, inducing anti-inflammatory cytokine production and Th2 differentiation.
  • MIMP treatment attenuated colitis in IL-10(-/-) mice by stimulating anti-inflammatory cytokines.

Conclusions:

  • MIMP is a key functional component of L. plantarum responsible for its protective effects.
  • MIMP demonstrates potential as a therapeutic agent for managing intestinal diseases.

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