Researchers at MIT successfully engineered Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron to express genes on demand, allowing for precise control over its functions in the mouse gut microbiome. This breakthrough has significant implications for tackling health-related problems and may lead to the development of new therapeutic applications.
A new study by NYU Langone Medical Center researchers found that multiple courses of commonly used antibiotics in children can have significant effects on their development. The study showed that antibiotic-exposed mice gained more weight and developed larger bones than untreated mice, while also disrupting the gut microbiome.
A study engineered a gut microbiome with low urease expression to alleviate hyperammonemia symptoms in mice. This approach reduced circulating ammonia levels and improved mortality rates in animals with liver disease.
A Wyss Institute team is developing genetically engineered bacteria that can sense, report, and combat harmful microbial invaders in the human gut. The team aims to create a probiotic pill form of the microbes that could reduce the length of gastrointestinal illness, returning individuals to their activities sooner.
Research at University of Chicago Medical Center reveals how immune system shapes gut microbiota to limit infections, providing a potential new approach to prevent bacterial infections without antibiotics. The study identifies a critical protein ID2 that plays a key role in this process.
Researchers analyzed saliva of cirrhosis patients to predict inflammasions and hospitalization, revealing a new target for research. The study found that oral microbiota reflects changes in gut microbiota in cirrhosis with hepatic encephalopathy.
Researchers found that Papua New Guineans have microbiomes with greater bacterial diversity and lower inter-individual variation compared to US residents. The study proposes a model based on ecological theory that explains the decline of microbiota diversity in urban-industrialized societies.
Researchers at Michigan Medicine are creating mini-guts in a dish using human stem cells to study the complex interaction between microbes, cells, and disease-causing bacteria. The 'guts in a dish' model aims to aid research on a wide range of diseases, including gastrointestinal disorders and emerging infections.
A University of Calgary study found that rats fed a fibre supplement while on a high fat and high sugar diet showed a much lower weight gain than those who did not eat the fibre. The study suggests that oligofructose, a naturally occurring dietary fibre, may help reduce weight gain by affecting gut microbiota and gut hormones.
A new study finds that high-fat diets produce changes in gut microbiome, leading to altered behavior and cognitive function. Mice with high-fat diet-induced gut microbiota showed increased anxiety, impaired memory, and signs of brain inflammation.
A team of researchers has discovered a strong association between the lifestyles of indigenous communities and their gut microbial ecologies. The study found that hunter-gatherers in South America and Africa have similar gut microbiota profiles, while urban-industrialists have distinct profiles, suggesting a link between lifestyle and ...
Researchers found that exclusively breastfed babies had microbial communities more ready for solid foods, while those with mixed diets experienced a dramatic shift. This study provides support for exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life.
A longitudinal study found that infants who developed type 1 diabetes had a significant drop in microbial diversity prior to disease onset, including a decrease in health-promoting bacteria and an increase in potentially harmful ones. The study also revealed stable biological functions served by the microbiome across individuals.
A large-scale analysis of the gut microbiome has identified significant variations in gene copy numbers across different strains of the same microbe species. These strain-level variations can affect the microbes' capabilities, lifestyle, and impact on human health, including obesity and inflammatory bowel disease.
Research explores how gut bacteria influence brain activity, sleep, stress responses, and disease development. The human microbiome's role in brain function is a growing area of study, with potential therapeutic applications through dietary modification.
Researchers found patients with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis had greater viral diversity than healthy volunteers, suggesting viruses play a role in the diseases. The study suggests that studying the virome may reveal new insights into obesity and diabetes.
Researchers have developed a new computational model that can predict and identify gut metabolites produced by microorganisms, which could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment of GI diseases. The model focused on aromatic amino acids and predicted over 49 different metabolites exclusive to the microbiota.
Researchers found that humans have less diverse gut microbiomes than African apes, with a possible link to modern diets and lifestyle changes. The rate of change in microbial diversity accelerated in humans from some parts of the world, potentially leading to negative health effects.
Two major research projects will investigate the microbiome and its impact on autism symptoms, as well as chronic constipation treatment to improve behavioral symptoms. The studies aim to establish clear guidelines for personalized treatments and may lead to stool tests guiding treatments for autism and its associated medical conditions.
Researchers found that artificial sweeteners can induce glucose intolerance by changing the composition and function of the gut microbiota. The study used mice and human data to show that certain bacteria in the gut react to artificial sweeteners, leading to inflammation and metabolic changes.
Researchers found that gut bacteria can sway food choices by releasing signaling molecules into the gut, influencing physiological and behavioral responses. The microbiome's diversity of interests can be manipulated through diet and supplement changes, offering a tractable approach to obesity and unhealthy eating.
A study tracking bacterial populations over a year found daily fluctuations in response to diet and other factors. The researchers also discovered that certain strains of bacteria, such as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, can be protected against inflammatory bowel disease by eating citrus.
Researchers have established a comprehensive catalog of the human gut microbial genes, with over 9.8 million genes available for global researchers to explore. The study highlights differences in nutrient metabolism and xenobiotic detoxification between Chinese and Danish adults, as well as enrichment in antibiotic resistance genes.
The AGA Institute published a special issue on the intestinal microbiome, exploring its role in maintaining human health and developing certain diseases. The research focuses on basic concepts, gut microbiome and disease interactions, and modification of the microbiome to maintain health or treat disease.
A study found that gut microbiota plays a role in the development of alcoholic liver disease, with fecal microbiota transplantation showing promise as a potential treatment. The research highlights the importance of restoring gut functionality and re-establishing intestinal flora.
A recent study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology has identified a distinct population of microbes in the breast tissue, with Proteobacteria being the dominant phylum. The presence of beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria suggests a potential protective effect for both mother and child.
A study of 300 children's gut microbiota found that breastfeeding impacts the composition of gut flora. The research suggests that the gut microbiota is not fully established until after 18 months, indicating a need for supplementation or probiotics to promote healthy gut health.
Recent studies suggest that antibiotic use in childhood can lead to changes in growth and metabolic development. Low-dose antibiotics have been shown to alter body fat and tissue composition in laboratory animals, highlighting the potential impact of antibiotics on the gut microbiota.
Recent research highlights the critical role of gut flora in diabetes and obesity, with studies suggesting a strong connection between the two. The CommHERE consortium, comprising nine European institutions, has brought together leading experts to discuss their findings on the impact of gut microbiota on metabolic diseases.
A new study by UC Berkeley researchers found a correlation between northern latitude and higher levels of obesity-linked bacteria in the gut. The analysis of over 1,000 people from around the world revealed that those living in colder regions had more Firmicutes and less Bacteroidetes in their gut microbiomes.
Scientists at the Marine Biological Laboratory found that different sponge species have unique microbiomes that are specific to their host species. The study used ultra-deep DNA sequencing technology to analyze the microbiomes of seven sponge species from various habitats.
Researchers found that exposure to dog dust reduces asthma risk in children and protects against respiratory infections by targeting a specific bacterial species. The study suggests that manipulating the gut microbiome with Lactobacillus johnsonii may prevent or treat asthma and allergies.
A study found that human gut bacteria can transmit lean or obese traits to mice depending on their diet, highlighting the importance of diet in shaping gut microbiota. The researchers identified specific bacterial species that play a role in metabolism and obesity, paving the way for personalized probiotic therapies.
Fructooliogosaccharides, found in chicory and other fruits/vegetables, provide prebiotic properties that stimulate gut microbiota production. They also enhance flavor, reduce sugar content and increase calcium absorption, supporting bone health.
A study published in PLOS ONE suggests that children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have lower diversity of gut bacteria and decreased amounts of three critical bacteria. This finding implies that a diverse gut microbiome is essential for maintaining a robust bacterial community, and may be linked to the development of ASD symptoms.
A new grant will fund research into the relationship between diet and specific microbes, genes, and colorectal cancer. The study aims to associate red meat intake with the gut microbiome on a population scale.
A study found that a Mediterranean diet causes a decrease in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels. Each individual has a unique microbial profile, like a fingerprint, which remains true even after diet manipulation.
Research from Massachusetts General Hospital finds that gastric bypass changes microbial populations in obese mice, leading to weight loss and improved metabolism. Transferring altered microbiota into germ-free mice reproduced the effects of bypass surgery.
Researchers from NYU College of Dentistry and School of Medicine will explore the role of intestinal microbiota in promoting pancreatic carcinogenesis. The study aims to determine whether endogenous gut bacteria can affect pancreatic oncogenesis and identify potential targets for prevention and treatment.
Researchers found that reintroducing normal microbial diversity can eliminate vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) from the intestinal tracts of mice and potentially humans. The study suggests that certain bacterial species, such as Barnesiella, play a key role in preventing colonization by VRE.
A study of young twins in Malawi reveals that dysfunctional gut microbes contribute to severe acute childhood malnutrition. The researchers found that feeding malnourished children a high-calorie, nutrient-rich food temporarily improved their gut microbiomes, but the benefits were short-lived. The findings suggest that repairing gut mi...
Researchers found a human gene associated with the presence of Prevotella bacteria in the gut, which could have implications for treating diseases like Crohn's. The study suggests that genetic variations may influence the makeup of the gut microbiota.
A University of Oklahoma study analyzed ancient DNA from human fecal samples to understand changes in the human gut microbiome. The results suggest that the last 100 years have seen a major shift in the human gut microbiome, with broader implications for modern health.
Research published in PLOS ONE reveals that extinct human microbes from archeological sites closely resemble those found in present-day rural African communities. The study suggests that the modern cosmopolitan lifestyle resulted in a dramatic change to the human gut microbiome.
A recent study found that mice carrying a set of friendly microbes fail to develop a proper immune system, highlighting the importance of host-specific microbiota. The researchers suggest that a coevolved relationship between humans and their gut microbiome may be compromised by modern lifestyle factors.
A team of scientists from the Gladstone Institutes has contributed to a groundbreaking study that mapped the human microbiome, revealing over 10,000 microorganisms that live on and inside humans. The researchers used advanced DNA-sequencing techniques to identify individual microbes and their roles in human health.
The Human Microbiome Project Collection provides a comprehensive baseline of the microbial diversity at 18 human body sites, including reference genomes and metagenomic sequences. The studies examine relationships between the microbiome and host health, shedding light on conditions such as Crohn's disease and psoriasis.
A team of scientists led by Washington University's Jeffrey I. Gordon will investigate the complex relationship between diet, gut microbes and immune system in severely malnourished children. The research aims to discover novel dietary and microbial therapeutics to target infants and children living in countries with rampant malnutrition.
A study suggests that eating pistachios can increase beneficial bacteria in the gut, potentially supporting digestive health. Researchers found a stronger effect on gut microbiota composition in those who ate pistachios compared to almonds.
A study analyzing human gut microbes as a complex system reveals patterns corresponding to excess body weight. The researchers found organizational shifts away from a normal state in the gut flora of obese individuals, which may account for their increased energy extraction capacity.
Researchers have sequenced the genome of Lactobacillus reuteri, a gut bacterium that has evolved unique adaptations to specific hosts. The study provides new insights into how bacteria establish and maintain mutually beneficial relationships with their hosts.
Research reveals that gut bacteria can exert control over metabolic functions of organs, including the liver, through changes in the microbiota. The study found that colonization with specific bacteria triggered changes in liver metabolic profiles, including glycogen and triglyceride production.
A pair of clinical trials found that two weeks of rifaximin treatment significantly reduced IBS symptoms, including bloating and abdominal pain. The benefits persisted for 10 weeks after treatment was stopped, suggesting a potential underlying cause of IBS: alterations in gut bacteria.
A University of Illinois study shows that sulforaphane, a powerful cancer-fighting agent in broccoli, can be released by bacteria in the lower gut and absorbed into the body. This discovery raises the possibility of enhancing the activity of these bacteria to increase broccoli's cancer-preventive power.
Dr. Blaser and his team will investigate whether changes in the human microbiome as a result of antibiotic use have fueled the obesity epidemic. The grant will assess the roles of gastric and colonic microbiota related to hormones and metabolism in both humans and mice.
The National Institutes of Health has awarded $42 million to expand eight demonstration projects investigating the link between changes in the human microbiome and health, as part of the Human Microbiome Project. The expanded studies will also support technology development to improve microbiome identification and characterization.
Researchers at EMBL discover a reference gene set for the human gut microbiome, cataloging 3.3 million microbial genes and shedding light on their role in maintaining health. This breakthrough enables non-invasive stool samples to be used as a measure of health, potentially leading to new treatments.
The Human Microbiome Project is expanding its efforts to understand the relationship between the microbiome and human health. The NIH has awarded over $42 million to fund sequencing centers and disease projects, including studies on psoriasis, bacterial vaginosis, obesity, and Crohn's disease.
A recent study by Cecil Lewis at the University of Oklahoma reveals that ancient microbes can provide insights into modern human health. The researchers analyzed 1,300-year-old feces from Central Mexico and found them to be more geographically structured than modern microbiomes.
The study found that gut microbiota play a significant role in regulating weight and energy balance. Researchers suggest that manipulating the gut microbiota could be a useful strategy for treating obesity. However, more research is needed to establish the relationship between gut bacteria and obesity.