Microbiota-derived extracellular vesicles: current knowledge, gaps, and challenges in precision nutrition

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Immunology
• Nutrition Science

Background:

• The gut microbiota and host immune system exhibit co-evolution, with microbial signals influencing immune development and function.
• Bacterial extracellular vesicles (BEVs) are emerging as critical mediators of gut homeostasis and immune modulation.
• BEVs, nanoparticles released by bacteria, carry diverse biomolecules and impact local and systemic immunity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of bacterial extracellular vesicle (BEV) characteristics and functions.
• To elucidate the influence of nutrition and antibiotics on BEV production, composition, and function.
• To highlight the potential of BEVs in developing precision nutritional strategies for health and disease management.

Main Methods:

• Literature review synthesizing current research on bacterial extracellular vesicles.
• Analysis of factors affecting BEV production, including diet and antibiotic exposure.
• Exploration of the role of BEVs in immunity, metabolic diseases, and neurological conditions.

Main Results:

• BEVs modulate immune processes and are implicated in various diseases due to their systemic distribution.
• Nutritional interventions, such as prebiotics, can enhance beneficial BEV production.
• Antibiotics can disrupt BEV composition, potentially altering their function and impact on host health.

Conclusions:

• BEVs are crucial players in the gut-host-immune axis.
• Dietary modulation of BEVs presents a promising strategy for precision nutrition.
• Understanding BEV dynamics is essential for managing immunity and preventing disease.