 The study investigates the role of a specific protein, DLTE, in the symbiotic relationship between Drosophila melanogaster and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Nc8. The researchers found that DLTE is responsible for breaking down D alloticoic acids, D allotias, which are produced by the bacteria and serve as signals to the fly's cells. These signals trigger the production of proteases in the fly's gut, which in turn promotes the fly's growth and development. This study provides insight into how symbiotic relationships can be used to understand the biological processes underlying host physiology. This article was authored by Nikos Nicolopoulos, Renata Seymottos, Stephanie Ravo, and others.