The gut microbiome exhibits marked spatial heterogeneity across gastrointestinal segments (e.g., stomach, duodenum, colon), with distinct microbial compositions and metabolic functions influencing host metabolism and immunity. Traditional fecal-centric approaches overlook this regional specificity, limiting insights into diseases like diabetes, metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), and functional constipation. For instance, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) disrupts bile acid metabolism by prematurely deconjugating bile acids in the duodenum, impairing their signaling via receptors (e.g., FXR, TGR5) and exacerbating metabolic dysregulation. Similarly, oral microbiota translocating to the lower gut may drive immune dysregulation, as seen in Graves’disease
Key findings from the study include:
Mechanical: Duodenal mucosal resection (DMR) reduces SIBO by removing biofilms.
AI-Driven: Machine learning integrates multi-omics data to predict microbial dynamics for personalized therapies.
Diagnostic: Oral microbiota translocation signatures (e.g., Streptococcus) and bile acid receptor expression serve as biomarkers for autoimmune and metabolic disorders
This study highlights the critical role of region-specific gut microbial distribution in metabolic and immune regulation. Key mechanisms include duodenal SIBO-driven bile acid disruption, geographic/dietary influences on microbial networks (e.g., Lachnospiraceae in Northeast China), and dysbiosis in core fiber-degrading guilds. Innovations like DMR, probiotics, and AI-driven models offer precision therapies, while translocated oral microbiota (e.g., Streptococcus) provide diagnostic biomarkers. However, challenges persist: geographic variability (e.g., underrepresented African populations) and functional redundancy (e.g., competing microbial guilds) complicate universal solutions. Mapping microbial spatial dynamics is essential for advancing personalized medicine. The work entitled “Investigating regional-specific gut microbial distribution:an uncharted territory in disease therapeutics” was published on Protein & Cell (published on Oct. 29, 2024).
Protein & Cell
Systematic review
Cells
Investigating regional-specific gut microbial distribution: an uncharted territory in disease therapeutics
29-Oct-2024