Alpha-Amylase/Trypsin Inhibitors, novel activators of innate immunity in ex-vivo tissue explants

Aims: We have identified wheat alpha-amylase/trypsin inhibitors (ATIs), pest resistant molecules found in grains, as potent activators of innate immunity in celiac disease and general intestinal inflammation by engaging the toll like receptor 4 (TLR4)-MD2-CD14 complex in monocytes, macrophages and dendritic cells (Junker et al, J Exp Med 2012). Precision-cut tissue slices (PCTS) are viable ex-vivo explants of tissues with a reproducible, well defined thickness, representing an organ with preserved intercellular and cell matrix interactions, similar to their natural multi-cellular environment. Objective: To evalu…