Gut IgA: Never fear, the super inducers are here

In this issue of Cell Host & Microbe, Zhang et al. show that long-term oral administration of a pectin-derived prebiotic broadly enhanced IgA responses to commensals in the small intestine. This effect required T cells and involved Lachnospiraceae A2, suggesting that a few symbionts promote IgA responses to many commensals. In this issue of Cell Host & Microbe, Zhang et al. show that long-term oral administration of a pectin-derived prebiotic broadly enhanced IgA responses to commensals in the small intestine. This effect required T cells and involved Lachnospiraceae A2, suggesting that a few symbionts promote IgA responses to many commensals. Select symbionts drive high IgA levels in the mouse intestineZhang et al.Cell Host & MicrobeSeptember 29, 2023In BriefZhang et al. demonstrate that long-term dietary intervention with pectin-derived oligosaccharides promotes the ability of specific bacteria, such as Lachnospiraceae bacterium A2, to elevate intestinal IgA that is directed against an array of symbionts. This activity could fit the definition of a keystone species that determines intestinal IgA levels. Full-Text PDF