Medizinische Universität Graz - Research portal
Selected Publication:
Raemisch, M.
Bacterial Membrane Vesicles mediate intestinal Homeostasis - Exploring the Impact of Akkermansia muciniphila-derived
Membrane Vesicles on the Mucus Barrier
Humanmedizin; [ Diplomarbeit ] Medizinische Universität Graz; 2025. pp. 94
[OPEN ACCESS]
FullText
- Authors Med Uni Graz:
- Advisor:
- Gorkiewicz Gregor
- Altmetrics:
- Abstract:
- Introduction: Maintaining symbiosis between the gut microbiome and its host requires a delicate balance between pathogen clearance and tolerance towards commensal bacteria. Akkermansia muciniphila is a key beneficial commensal that enhances epithelial barrier integrity and mucus production while inducing immunomodulation. As the name suggests, A. muciniphila is specialized in the mucosal habitat of the gut. Reductions in its abundance are associated with various diseases and a dysfunctional mucus barrier. Bacterial membrane vesicles (BMV) enable communication between host and microbiota by passing the mucus barrier. A. muciniphila mediates many beneficial effects by its outer membrane vesicles (OMV). They reduce intestinal permeability, modulate the immune system and ultimately support colonization with commensals. BMVs seem to play an essential role in maintaining intestinal homeostasis, but it is unknown whether A. muciniphila's OMVs also mediate its effects on the mucus barrier. Exploring this could provide valuable insights for the use of BMVs as a novel therapy option for inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). These diseases are characterized by reduced A. muciniphila abundance and an impaired mucus barrier.