RECEPTOR ACTIVATION QUANTIFICATION
Background
The intestinal microbiota is not only involved in digestion but has a dynamic relationship with the host’s immune systems as well. The complex interplay between the microbiota and the immune system is currently the focus of much research. This interplay starts early in life, where the steadily evolving microbiota trains the intestinal immune system to recognise and tolerate the commensal organisms, while at the same time keeping them from escaping the gut. The immune system is also taught to differentiate between commensal and potentially pathogenic bacteria, directing secretory IgA preferentially against the pathogens.
There is a growing requirement to assess the Total Inflammatory Milieu (TIM) of the gastrointestinal tract and how this is influenced by the relative balance of pathogens versus symbiotic microbiota.
Prototrial Strategy
Analytical Strategy
Synexa developed and validated a NFκβ (controls transcription of cytokines) reporter cell line assay to robustly quantify TLR activation in stool supernatants. The cell line expresses the following TLR receptors:
Outcomes
Assay has been used in a clinical trial setting to monitor the TIM of therapies that modulate gut microbiota. The assay can be used in a translational research setting to study the impact of probiotic and/or prebiotic on TIM and aid in determining through which specific TLRs a therapeutic effect is exerted.
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