<i>Campylobacter jejuni</i> infection impacts host-derived miRNAs targeting bacterial and host genes

Host-derived microRNAs (miRNAs) are known to regulate bacterial gene expression and maintain gut homeostasis. However, how these miRNAs survive harsh gut conditions to remain functional is not fully understood. This study tested whether extracellular vesicles (EV) carry microRNAs in the gut and whether infection with the enteric pathogen <i>Campylobacter jejuni</i> alters the microRNA profile packaged in these vesicles. We utilized fecal samples from mice, either maintained germ-free (absence of microbiota) or, C13 (defined 13 bacterial consortium), and C13 + <i>C. jejuni</i> to analyze the EV-derived miRNA pattern across the groups. Our results revealed distinct sets of miRNAs in each group and suggested possible interactions between these miRNAs and gene transcripts from both the host and bacteria. These findings provide new insights into how <i>C. jejuni</i> infection may change communication between the host and its microbiome, potentially affecting gut health and disease.