The role of serpin-producing B. longum as an inhibitor of gluten/ATI-related innate immuneactivation

Gluten-related disorders include a variety of clinical entities triggered by the ingestion of gluten containing cereals. The
best characterized condition is celiac disease, an autoimmune enteropathy occurring in genetically susceptible
individuals. Non-celiac gluten sensitivity or non-coeliac wheat sensitivity (NCGS/ NCWS) is a clinical descriptor of
patients, in whom celiac disease and wheat allergy have been ruled out, that present with intestinal and/or extraintestinal
symptoms after ingestion of gluten-containing foods. We recently found that treatment of mice with a
probiotic manufactured by our industrial partner (Nestle), a B. longum NCC 2705 producing serpin, alleviated gluteninduced
intraepithelial lymphocytosis and restored villus to crypt ratios. We also observed a change in glutenasic
activity in mice treated with B. longum NCC 2705, suggesting the protective effect may include a specific mechanism
linked to the metabolism of gluten. We will test the role of B. longum NCC 2705 in the metabolism of gluten and
amylase trypsin inhibitors which have been implicated in the induction of innate immune responses. The results will
enhance the mechanistic knowledge and provide a basis for human trials and the potential application of these
probiotic strains by the industrial partner, in the prevention or treatment of gluten and wheat sensitivities.

Faculty Supervisor:

Elena Verdu

Student:

Partner:

SOCIÉTÉ DES PRODUITS NESTLÉ S.A.;McMaster University;Nestle Canada Inc

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology; Agriculture and Food; Life Sciences (not health)

University:

McMaster University

Program: