A Bifidobacterial pilus-associated protein promotes colonic epithelial proliferation

What is it about?

Bifidobacteria are among the first colonizers of the newborn gastrointestinal tract, and appreciated to positively impact on host health. Previously we identified bifidobacterial Tad pili as an essential and conserved colonization factor. Here we show that Tad pili, and specifically a pseudopilin subunit, TadE, are involved in host signalling, leading to in vivo colonic epithelial proliferation. These findings could have several therapeutic implications, particularly in the management of preterm babies with sub-optimal mucosal maturation.

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