Fig. 2.

Control of Tfh cells abundance by P2X7R in the PPs of the small intestine and modulation of gut microbiota by SIgA. P2X7R limits Tfh cells abundance in the PPs, and consequently plasma cells generation and SIgA production. This mechanism ensures a physiological shaping of the microbiota, thus promoting metabolic homeostasis. In P2rx7^-/- mice, Tfh cell activity and GC reactions are enhanced. The resultant increase in SIgA affects microbiota composition, glucose metabolism and fat deposition. Reduction of intestinal eATP by apyrase enzymatic activity in mice monocolonized with E. colip^Apyr results in a more diversified SIgA repertoire and altered gene transcription in enterocytes by upregulation of genes involved in metabolic versus immune functions. Created with BioRender