Abstract: Intestinal barrier dysfunction is associated with some chronic metabolic diseases, such as obesity and diabetes. Akkermansia muciniphlia, a mucin-degrading bacterium that resides in the mucus layer, is closely related to intestinal barrier function. Significant changes in the abundance of this bacterium in clinical cases and some animal models of metabolic diseases suggest its possible involvement in the progression of metabolic diseases. However, the exact mechanism of action remains to be clarified. This article reviews recent advances in the relationship of A. muciniphlia with the intestinal mucus layer, metabolic diseases and intestinal immunity, and also attempts to elucidate the influence and mechanism of action of this bacterium on intestinal barrier function. It is hoped that this review will provide new insights into dietary prevention of chronic metabolic diseases.

Key words: Akkermansia muciniphlia, intestinal barrier function, chronic metabolic diseases, abundance