Pasteurized water kefir alters the levels of two immune signaling molecules, IL-10 and IL-1β, in a laboratory model of the human intestine, suggesting it influences immune activity in a way that...
Mechanism
Synthesis from 1 study
Pasteurized water kefir releases tiny molecules from dead microbes that tell gut cells to send out both a warning signal and a calming signal at the same time. This keeps the gut ready to respond to threats without overreacting, helping it stay healthy and balanced.
Most probable mechanism
When pasteurized water kefir enters the gut, it releases molecules from dead microbes that feed good bacteria, which then make short acids. These acids and other microbial fragments trigger gut cells to produce both a warning signal and a calming signal at the same time. The warning signal helps the gut stay alert to threats, while the calming signal prevents overreaction. Together, they keep the gut lining strong and prevent unnecessary inflammation.
Pasteurization inactivates microbial cells in water kefir, causing cell lysis and release of intracellular and cell wall components including short-chain fatty acids, yeast-derived glycans, peptidoglycan, and β-glucans.
Released short-chain fatty acids (acetate, propionate, butyrate) are absorbed by intestinal epithelial cells and serve as energy substrates, enhancing tight junction protein expression and increasing transepithelial electrical resistance to strengthen the gut barrier.
Yeast-derived glycans and bacterial cell wall fragments bind to pattern recognition receptors on intestinal macrophages and epithelial cells, activating intracellular signaling pathways including NF-κB and MAPK.
NF-κB activation induces transcription and secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β, while concurrent signaling from short-chain fatty acids and glycans simultaneously promotes transcription and secretion of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10.
Co-expression of IL-1β and IL-10 creates a regulated immune signal that promotes regulatory T-cell differentiation, suppresses excessive TNF-α production, and maintains mucosal tolerance without triggering pathological inflammation.
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
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Water Kefir and Derived Pasteurized Beverages Modulate Gut Microbiota, Intestinal Permeability and Cytokine Production In Vitro
Contradicting (0)
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