Research shows the commensal bacterium Corynebacterium mastitidis uses the lipid TMCM to trigger protective ocular immunity. TMCM activates IL-17+ γδ T cells through TCR and IL-1R1 signaling. This microbial factor strengthens barrier defenses and prevents bacterial infections.

References:

• Xu X, Rigas Y E, Mattapallil M J, et al. Commensal-derived trehalose monocorynomycolate triggers γδ T cell-driven protective ocular barrier immunity[J]. Immunity, 2025.