Microcin C7 Prevents Cyclophosphamide-Induced Immunosuppression and Intestinal Injury by Modulating T-Cell...

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Immunology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Microcin C7 (McC7) is a ribosomally synthesized peptide with antibacterial and immunomodulatory properties.
• Cyclophosphamide (CTX) is a chemotherapeutic agent that induces immunosuppression and intestinal injury.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the preventive effects of McC7 against CTX-induced immunosuppression and intestinal damage in a mouse model.
• To investigate McC7's impact on immune cell populations, gut microbiota, and intestinal integrity.

Main Methods:

• An immunosuppression model was established using CTX injection in mice.
• Mice were treated with varying doses of dietary McC7 before and during CTX exposure.
• Analyses included body weight, organ indices, serum biochemistry, immune markers, T-cell subsets, intestinal morphology, and gut microbiota composition (16S rRNA sequencing).

Main Results:

• McC7 supplementation attenuated CTX-induced reductions in body weight, feed intake, and organ indices.
• McC7 ameliorated hepatic and renal injury markers and restored the splenic CD4+/CD8+ T-cell ratio.
• McC7 enhanced intestinal barrier function, increased beneficial bacteria (e.g., *Candidatus Arthromitus*), and decreased pathogenic bacteria (e.g., *Bilophila*).

Conclusions:

• McC7 effectively alleviates CTX-induced immunosuppression and intestinal injury.
• McC7 exerts its protective effects by regulating T-cell differentiation, maintaining cytokine balance, and modulating gut microbiota composition.
• McC7 demonstrates potential as a therapeutic agent for managing chemotherapy-induced side effects and supporting gut health.