In Vitro Interaction Between Yeast Extracellular Vesicles and Human Monocyte-Derived Dendritic Cells

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Microbiology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are crucial mediators of intercellular communication, carrying diverse molecular cargo.
• Yeast-derived EVs can modulate host immune responses, with implications for host-microbe interactions.
• Aging-associated immunosenescence affects immune cell function and gut microbiota, highlighting the need to study their interplay.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and present a protocol for investigating the interaction between yeast EVs and human dendritic cells (DCs).
• To assess the impact of aging on the immune system-microbiota axis by studying yeast EV-DC interactions.

Main Methods:

• Incubation of in vitro-generated human monocyte-derived dendritic cells (DCs) with EVs from various fermented milk yeast strains.
• Flow cytometry analysis to evaluate DC activation markers.
• Endocytosis assays to quantify EV uptake by DCs.

Main Results:

• The protocol enables the analysis of DC activation markers following incubation with yeast EVs.
• The methodology allows for the assessment of EV endocytosis by DCs.
• This approach facilitates the study of immune modulation by commensal yeast EVs.

Conclusions:

• The presented protocol provides a framework for studying yeast EV-DC interactions in vitro.
• This research aids in understanding the impact of aging on the gut microbiota and immune system interplay.
• Investigating these interactions can offer insights into immune responses and potential therapeutic strategies.