Targeting the glucocorticoid receptor: a novel role for microbiome proteins in IBD

Glucocorticoids are the mainstay treatment to quell acute flare events in the context of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. These steroids are taken systemically and have broad and long-lasting side effects. As a result, alternative, safer approaches are sought. We have recently discovered that proteins made by the gut microbiota found predominantly in healthy individuals trigger the same receptors. This suggests that these proteins may have therapeutic benefit. The proposed research aims to further our understanding of these interactions. We aim to test whether these proteins, when amended to the gut microbiome of mice with colitis, are sufficient to reduce inflammation. Our ultimate goal is to develop therapeutics for patients with IBD that perform the role of glucocorticoids and act locally on inflamed tissue in the gut.