An approach to increase the gut-derived maternal immunoglobulin A (IgA) production using dietary tryptophan via aryl hydrocarbon receptor

2021 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 20K15478
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Early-Career Scientists
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Review Section: Basic Section 38050:Food sciences-related
• Research Institution: Tohoku University
• Principal Investigator: Jahidul Islam 東北大学, 農学研究科, 特任助教 (20805569)
• Project Period (FY): 2020-04-01 – 2022-03-31
• Keywords: IgA / 腸管 / トリプトファン

Outline of Final Research Achievements

Feces of mice fed with 0.5% Trp-added basal feed or basal feed over time were collected and the IgA concentration in the feces was measured. Six weeks after the start of feeding, the large intestine was collected to address the number of plasma cells. In addition, using mice born 6 to 8 weeks after the start of feeding, feces and milk were collected to measure IgA concentration. The large intestine and mammary gland were collected in the second week of breastfeeding, to investigate the number of plasma cells. Fecal IgA levels increased significantly in the Trp group after 4 weeks of feeding bottom. However, there was no significant difference in the number of plasma cells in the large intestine 6 weeks after the start of feeding. Fecal IgA levels also increased significantly in the Trp group during early and late pregnancy. Trp is highly demanding, suggesting that Trp can enhance immunity in the intestinal tract.

Free Research Field

粘膜免疫学、栄養学

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

Most of the changes in the amount of intestinal IgA and its role during the perinatal period is still unknown. This study for the first time investigated the intestinal IgA production and its role in strengthening immunity during the perinatal period through tryptophan (Trp) supplementation.