Gut microbiota contributes to spontaneous colitis in E3 ligase Itch- deficient mice

we found that deficiency of the E3 ligase Itch, which leads to spontaneous colitis and rectal prolapse, is associated with alteration of the gut microbiota. 16S rRNA sequencing showed expansion of colitogenic Bacteroides sp. in Itch ko mice. Treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics substantially reduced colonic inflammation in Itch ko mice.