Indeed, a recent study showed that improved barrier function as a consequence of Akkermansia administration can protect against Clostridioides difficile infection in the colon.10 In our study, Akkermansia modified immune gene expression in the ileum (local) and liver (systemic), including regulation of genes encoding tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) both before and during Listeria infection.4 TNFα is well established as a key cytokine which enhances protection against L. monocytogenes. The gene discussed is TNF; the disease is listeriosis.