The control of autoimmunity by the microbiota-immune axis.

The aim of the following study is to decipher the role of the microbiota in triggering autoimmune reactions. It is well known that diet influences the composition of the microbiota and the onset of autoimmune reactions. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these processes are not yet fully understood. In this project, we will investigate how a high-glucose diet influences the composition of the microbiota and the development of autoimmune reactions. In particular, we will examine the role of cross-reactive antibodies in protecting the pancreas from the development of diabetes. We will further investigate the TLR4-lymphotxin axis in the induction of autoantibodies. Finally, we will investigate how a high-glucose diet influences T-cell development and what role lymphotoxin plays in this process. These experiments will enable us to understand the mechanism by which a high-glucose diet influences the microbiota and can lead to the development of autoimmune diseases. This knowledge will enable the development of strategies to modify the microbiota in order to prevent autoimmune reactions and thus protect people from the development of autoimmunity. In particular, the results generated will lead to antibody prototypes and bacterial strains capable of inhibiting type 2 diabetes and associated metabolic disorders. Such antibodies can also be used to treat metabolic disorders. In addition, supplementing patients with probiotic strains and developing diets that promote the growth of these bacteria will be key strategies for further improving the course of the disease.