Revisiting the role of <i>Akkermansia muciniphila</i> as a therapeutic bacterium

Abstract

Despite a short history since its first isolation, <i>Akkermansia muciniphila</i> has been extensively studied in relation to its effects on human metabolism. A recent human intervention study also demonstrated that the bacterium is safe to use for therapeutic purposes. The best-known effects of <i>A. muciniphila</i> in human health and disease relate to its ability to strengthen gut integrity, modulate insulin resistance, and protect the host from metabolic inflammation. A further molecular mechanism, induction of GLP-1 secretion through ICAM-2 receptor, was recently discovered with the identification of a new bacterial protein produced by <i>A. muciniphila</i>. However, other studies have suggested a detrimental role for <i>A. muciniphila</i> in specific host immune settings. Here, we evaluate the molecular, mechanistic effects of <i>A. muciniphila</i> in host health and suggest some of the missing links to be connected before the organism should be considered as a next-generation biotherapeutic agent.