Nucleomodulins from gut bacteria: diverse mechanisms of translocation and interaction with host nuclear processes

Nucleomodulins (NMs) are bacterial nuclear-targeted effector proteins that interfere with a multitude of host cellular processes to shield pathogens from host immune responses. Recent years observed a surge in NM-related research owing to their potential role in both infectious diseases and cancer development. However, considering the complex nature of the interaction between NM and host factors, the field of "NM-disease axis" is still in the nascent phase. Thus, a comprehensive view of the known mechanisms of translocation of NMs to the host cell nucleus and mode of action, thereafter, is crucial toward deeper exploration of the "NM-disease axis." The human gut is the major host niche to harbor bacterial cells (as part of "gut microbiota"). The current review provides an extensive collation of nucleomodulin-mediated mechanisms employed by opportunistic gut pathogens. The insights from the review would help in designing future experiments toward utilizing the NM-associated host-pathogen interaction modules in disease diagnostics and therapy.