2 '-Fucosyllactose impacts the expression of mucus-related genes in goblet cells and maintains barrier function of gut epithelial cells

Scope Cost-effective microbial biosynthesis of 2′-fucosyllactose (2′-FL) allows its application in infant formula. The specific effects of 2′-FL on the gastrointestinal immune barrier are still largely unknown. Methods/results Here, we quantified and compared the effects of HMOs isolated from human milk, 2′-FL/lactose (Lac), and 2′-FL on the expression of the mucus associated genes MUC2, TFF3, RETLB and the Golgi sulfotransferases, CHST5, and GAL3ST5, in human goblet cells. We also determined whether these compounds have protective effects on A23187-induced barrier disruption of human T84 gut epithelial cells in vitro. The impact of isolated HMOs and 2′-FL/Lac on the mRNA expression of the mucus-related genes was minor while pure 2′-FL significantly induced GAL3ST2 and CHST5. Isolated HMOs, 2′-FL/Lac and 2′-FL all prevented A23187-induced barrier disruption in human T84 cells. Conclusion Our findings indicate that 2′-FL modulates the secretory function of goblet cells and protects gut epithelial cells