Nature: This brain cell cooperates with the gut microbiome to fight brain inflammation

Introduction: Astrocytes are the most abundant cell type in the central nervous system (CNS), yet their properties remain poorly understood

Researchers have long believed that the main function of astrocytes is to provide nutrients and support to nerve cells in the brain

A team of researchers led by Brigham and Women's Hospital has shown that specific subpopulations of astrocytes can do the opposite: exerting protective anti-inflammatory functions in the brain based on regulatory signals from gut microbes

"Over the years, many laboratories have identified the important role of astrocytes in promoting neurological disease," said the study's corresponding author, Dr.

The researchers used genetic and protein analysis tools to identify this newly discovered subpopulation of astrocytes

To determine the mechanism of action that controls LAMP1+TRAIL+ astrocytes in the brain, the researchers performed a series of assays using the gene editing tool CRISPR-Cas9

IFN-γ signaling in LAMP1 + TRAIL + astrocytes

Understanding the mechanisms that drive the anti-inflammatory function of LAMP1+TRAIL+ astrocytes could allow researchers to develop treatments for neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis

In addition, the team's latest data suggest that certain brain tumors use this pathway to evade the body's immune response

"The discovery of this anti-inflammatory subpopulation of astrocytes controlled by gut microbes is an important advance in our understanding of CNS inflammation and its regulation," said the researchers

Quintana's lab discovered in 2016 the only subpopulation of astrocytes known to be regulated by the gut microbiome, but they think there may be others