Network modelling links Veillonella to regulatory T cell
expansion whilst skin-associated bacteria enhance T cell proliferation
in breastfed neonates
Finally, we undertook an integrative analysis of the combined data from
flow cytometry, MLR and microbiome sequencing of neonates at 3 weeks of
age. Network modelling revealed a range of positive and negative
correlations between these parameters. In breastfed neonates CD4+ and
CD8+ proliferative responses against maternal antigen were strongly
correlated with Gemella and skin-associated taxa (Figure 7a). The
presence of Veillonella within the microbiome correlated with the
prevalence of Tregs at 3 weeks and this effect was independent of
nutrition history (Figure 7b). In breastfed neonates Veillonellawas also associated with HLA-DR expression on CD4+ cells and IFN-γ
production in CD8+ cells. These findings suggest that Veillonellamay act to enhance regulatory responses in the early period of life
whereas skin-associated bacteria, potentially acquired through
breastfeeding, may act to promote proliferative responses.