Washington: Scientists at the University of Pennsylvania have identified a molecule that plays a significant role in the changes in the composition or diversity of bacterial populations in the gut.
David Artis PhD, associate professor of Microbiology, and colleagues report that the enzyme HDAC3 is a key mediator in maintaining proper intestinal integrity and function in the presence of friendly bacteria.
HDAC3 and the genetic pathways are also critical in maintaining a healthy balance between intestinal microbes and their host.
Theresa Alenghat VMD PhD, instructor in the Department of Microbiology, said that HDAC3 in intestinal epithelial cells regulates the relationship between commensal bacteria and mammalian intestine physiology.
The study is published in the journal Nature.
