REG3A and IL22 opposite effects on fat accumulation in the liver and impact on gut microbiota composition in a mice model

IL22 is a cytokine with many immunoregulatory effects. It also promotes mucus production, cell proliferation and wound healing, making it a key component of intestinal health. An increasing body of studies highlight the potential of IL22 as a therapeutic drug against NAFLD through the induction of antimicrobial peptides, especially of the Reg3 lectins family, and the regulation of gut microbiota. However, adverse reactions to this molecule in long term administration are little-studied. In this study we provide evidence that daily long term administration of IL22 can aggravate NAFLD by mechanisms independent from gut microbiota.