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METTL9 tests Candida's mettle by limiting metal acquisition.
Raminder Singh1, Manuela Raffatellu2
1Division of Host-Microbe Systems and Therapeutics, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
Cell Host & Microbe
|January 15, 2026
Summary
Intestinal epithelial cells secrete METTL9, an anti-zincophore protein. This protein limits fungal access to zinc, reducing fungal colonization and growth in the gut.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- The gut mucosal immune system protects against fungal pathogens.
- Fungal infections require essential nutrients like zinc for colonization and growth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate novel mechanisms of intestinal defense against fungal pathogens.
- To identify specific molecules involved in limiting fungal growth in the gut.
Main Methods:
- Investigated the role of intestinal epithelial cells in antifungal immunity.
- Identified and characterized a novel secreted protein, METTL9.
- Assessed the impact of METTL9 on fungal zinc acquisition and colonization.
Main Results:
- Intestinal epithelial cells secrete METTL9.
- METTL9 functions as an anti-zincophore, sequestering zinc.
- Reduced zinc availability limits fungal colonization and growth in the gut.
Conclusions:
- METTL9 is a key component of the gut's defense against fungal infections.
- Targeting zinc availability is a viable strategy for controlling fungal gut colonization.
