A recent study has thoroughly examined a beneficial microbe located in the lower gut, identifying its specialized diet of breaking down sugars embedded in mucus.
A recent study has thoroughly examined a beneficial microbe found in the lower gut, revealing its specialized diet focused on breaking down sugars embedded in mucus.
Published in Nature Microbiology on January 31st, this new research provides an in-depth analysis of the human colon microbe, Akkermansia muciniphila (AM), and its consumption of sugars present in the mucus produced in the digestive system. The focus was on 66 enzymes utilized by AM to decompose mucus, which is a vital component of the protective layer lining the human gastrointestinal tract.
The research team, led by Dr. Lucy Crouch from the University of Birmingham, used mucus sourced from a pig model. They discovered that various enzymes from AM were capable of fully breaking down the mucin, providing the first extensive insight into the molecular processes through which this microbe metabolizes O-linked sugars.
Dr. Lucy Crouch, a Sir Henry Dale Fellow at the University of Birmingham and the lead author of the study, stated:
“This is the first comprehensive look at how microbes digest the food source O-linked sugars in the gut. This is the first time we have used a set of enzymes to completely analyze the glycan section of mucin. These newly identified enzymes could be crucial in understanding the different glycans we produce, which may signal various health conditions.”
“These glycans act as receptors for multiple pathogens and their toxins, such as Shiga toxin. Therefore, adjusting these glycans could potentially influence the severity of certain diseases.”
“AM proteins and outer membrane extracts from AM have demonstrated positive effects on the host, including beneficial impacts on metabolism. Some of these proteins seem to interact with host receptors that may help modulate the immune response. AM thrives on the mucus we produce, indicating diverse forms of interaction between us.”
“We recognize that AM is an extremely significant microbe, with its levels often reflecting overall health. This bacterium consistently supports gut health, and reduced levels are linked to inflammatory conditions and diabetes. Additionally, AM is highly sensitive to decreasing dietary fiber.”
