Host-microbe interactions following L. plantarum administration in SIV-infected and uninfected macaques

Chronic gut inflammatory diseases are associated with disruption of intestinal epithelial barriers and impaired mucosal immunity. Human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV) causes depletion of mucosal CD4+ T cells early in infection and disruption of gut epithelium resulting in chronic inflammation and immunodeficiency. Although anti-retroviral therapy (ART) is effective in suppressing viral replication, it is incapable of restoring the 'leaky gut' which poses an impediment for HIV cure efforts. Strategies are needed for rapid repair of the epithelium to protect intestinal microenvironments and immunity in inflamed gut. Using an in vivo non-human primate intestinal loop model of HIV/AIDS, we identified the pathogenic mechanism underlying sustained disruption of gut epithelium and explored rapid repair of gut epithelium at the intersection of microbial metabolism. To elucidate pathways regulating intestinal epithelial integrity, we introduced probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum into SIV-inflamed intestinal lumen and collected the ileum approximately 5 hours after bacterial administration.