Abstract: The disclosure provides methods and compositions for affecting the development of antigen presenting cell (APC, e.g., a macrophage or dendritic cell). The methods include maturing an APC, promoting anti-inflammatory phenotype, promoting development of a T regulatory cell (Treg) from a naive T cell. The methods generally include exposing an APC to a tryptophan derived microbiota metabolite (TDMM), such as an anti-inflammatory or pro-mucosal TDMM, and permitting the APC to mature. In some embodiments, the conditioned APC is exposed to a naive T cell to further promote development of a T regulatory cell (Treg). In some embodiments, the TDMM is selected from the group consisting of indole, indole-3-acetate, 5-hydroxyindole, and indole-3-pyruvate.

Abstract: The disclosure provides methods and compositions for affecting the development of antigen presenting cell (APC, e.g., a macrophage or dendritic cell). The methods include maturing an APC, promoting anti-inflammatory phenotype, promoting development of a T regulatory cell (Treg) from a naive T cell. The methods generally include exposing an APC to a tryptophan derived microbiota metabolite (TDMM), such as an anti-inflammatory or pro-mucosal TDMM, and permitting the APC to mature. In some embodiments, the conditioned APC is exposed to a naive T cell to further promote development of a T regulatory cell (Treg). In some embodiments, the TDMM is selected from the group consisting of indole, indole-3-acetate, 5-hydroxyindole, and indole-3-pyruvate.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to methods and compositions for addressing conditions of dysbiosis and/or inflammation, such as enteropathy, associated with administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). The disclosure includes methods comprising administering an effective amount of a tryptophan derived microbiota metabolite (TDMM) to a subject that has also been administered, or is expected to have administered, a NSAID.

Abstract: Disclosed are compositions derived from the commensal microbiota and related methods for inducing and differentiating naive T cells. In some embodiments, the compositions and methods can be selectively used to generate stable regulatory T-cells (Tregs or iTregs) or stabilize such Tregs to prevent inflammatory responses and instead promote antigen tolerance. Alternatively, in other aspects, select compositions can be used to promote pro-inflammatory T cell development, such as through the induced development and stabilization of Th1 and Th7 cells.

Abstract: A recombinant E. coli cell including nucleic acid sequences that encode phosphatidic acid phosphatase (PGP) and diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT). Upon expression of the PGP and DGAT, the cell produces a triglyceride having a C16 acyl chain. Also provided is a method for producing triglycerides by culturing the recombinant E. coli cell.

Abstract: Described herein are methods for treating obesity or promoting weight loss using agents that alter pyruvate flux in an adipocyte. Methods are provided for administering an agent or combination of agents to an obese individual to alter the flux of pyruvate in an adipocyte. Also described herein is a method for modifying triglyceride storage in an adipocyte by contacting an adipocyte with an agent or combination of agents that alter pyruvate flux.