Unraveling the Potential Role of DC-SIGN in Shaping Gut Microbiota During the Early Postnatal Life

Emerging evidence highlights a significant association between early-life gut microbiota composition and the development of chronic diseases later in life. The postnatal period plays a crucial role in shaping the composition of the gut microbiota, establishing microbe-host interactions, and maintaining immune balance. However, the specific molecular mechanisms responsible for this neonatal priming period have yet to be elucidated. Multiple innate immune receptors actively participate in shaping the gut microbiota during this critical period. The innate immune receptor DC-SIGN functions as a sensor mediating the crosstalk between a large number of microorganisms, especially Gram-negative bacteria, and host immunity. This study aimed to investigate the role of the DC-SIGN receptor in shaping gut microbiota composition in early life.