The immune system is known for its role in defending the body from potential pathogens; however, recent research at Yale reveals it may also play a significant part in managing our metabolism. A team of Yale researchers, led by Li Wen, MD, PhD, professor of medicine (endocrinology), investigated how immune system dysfunction may impact the development of obesity.
These researchers used preclinical models to understand how the loss of a specific innate immunity receptor in B cells, a type of immune cell, leads to altered metabolism. Under normal circumstances, this receptor, TLR9, helps the cells respond to and recognize potential pathogens. The authors found that deletion of TLR9 in B cells promoted inflammation in the body and led to significant changes in the metabolism and gut microbiome. Together, these changes increased susceptibility to obesity and other metabolic dysfunctions.
These findings provide greater insight into a complex network that links the immune system and gut microbiota in obesity. A better understanding of this linkage may illuminate new strategies for preventing or treating obesity and its associated health conditions.
To learn more, read the paper, “Tlr9 deficiency in B cells leads to obesity by promoting inflammation and gut dysbiosis.”
Wang, P., Yang, X., Zhang, L. et al. Tlr9 deficiency in B cells leads to obesity by promoting inflammation and gut dysbiosis. Nat Commun 15, 4232 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-48611-8