Background: The intestinal microbiome contributes to health maintenance. Pathological alterations in the microbiome, the so called dysbiosis, may predispose to a variety of diseases. The main microbiome development starts directly after birth, with billions of bacteria encountering the newborns gut. To date it is mainly unknown how the neonatal immune system regulates this colonisation process and balance tolerance of symbiotic flora and protection from pathogens with an adequate inflammatory response. Myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSC) are immature immune cells with anti-inflammatory activity. MDSC have been found in high numbers in the newborn. Their role in regulating inflammation in the developing gut is unknown.

Hypothesis/Aim: In this project the role of MDSC for control of intestinal inflammation during microbiome development will be analyzed.

Expected outcome: The results will help finding therapies contributing to a healthy development of the microbiome.