Very long-chain fatty acids control peroxisome dynamics via a feedback loop in intestinal stem cells during gut regeneration

Peroxisome dynamics are crucial for intestinal stem cell (ISC) differentiation and gut regeneration. However, the precise mechanisms that govern peroxisome dynamics within ISCs during gut regeneration remain unknown. Using mouse colitis and Drosophila intestine models, we have identified a negative-feedback control mechanism involving the transcription factors peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) and SOX21. This feedback mechanism effectively regulates peroxisome abundance during gut regeneration. Following gut injury, the released free very long-chain fatty acids (VLCFAs) increase peroxisome abundance by stimulating PPARs-PEX11s signaling. PPARs act to stimulate peroxisome fission and inhibit pexophagy. SOX21, which acts downstream of peroxisomes during ISC differentiation, induces peroxisome elimination through pexophagy while repressing PPAR expression. Hence, PPARs and SOX21 constitute a finely tuned negative-feedback loop that regulates peroxisome dynamics. These findings shed light on the complex molecular mechanisms underlying peroxisome regulation in ISCs, contributing to our understanding of gut renewal and repair.