MicroRNA-223 Regulates the Differentiation and Function of Intestinal Dendritic Cells and Macrophages by Targeting C/EBPβ

• The number of CX3CR1hi intestinal macrophages decreased in miR-223-deficient mice
• The intestinal APC in miR-223-deficient mice showed a more pro-inflammatory phenotype
• miR-223 exerted its effects on APCs by targeting C/EBPβ

SummaryDendritic cells (DCs) and macrophages play important roles in maintaining intestinal homeostasis. However, the molecular mechanisms that regulate the differentiation and responses of intestinal DCs and macrophages remain poorly understood. Here, we have identified microRNA miR-223 as a key molecule for regulating these processes. Deficiency of miR-223 led to a significantly decreased number of intestinal CX3CR1hi macrophages at steady state. Both intestinal CX3CR1hi macrophages and CD103+ conventional DCs (cDCs) in miR-223-deficient mice exhibited a strong pro-inflammatory phenotype. Moreover, miR-223-deficient monocytes gave rise to more monocyte-derived DCs (moDCs) and produced more pro-inflammatory cytokines upon stimulation. Using a mouse model of colitis, we demonstrated that the miR-223 deficiency resulted in more severe colitis. Target gene analysis further identified that the effects of miR-223 on DCs and macrophages were mediated by directly targeting C/EBPβ. Taken together, our study identifies a role for miR-223 as a critical regulator of intestinal homeostasis.

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