How do genes affect gut bacteria in rats?

Specific genes in rats influence the growth of certain gut bacteria, which can then spread to cage mates through social contact.

Can living with others impact my gut health like in the rat study?

The study suggests that shared gut microbes, influenced by genetics, could mean your health impacts those you live with.

What is the St6galnac1 gene's role in gut bacteria?

The St6galnac1 gene in rats helps add sugars to the gut lining, which serve as food for the bacterium Paraprevotella.

Home / Science / Your Genes Might Shape Your Roommate's Gut

Your Genes Might Shape Your Roommate's Gut

24 Dec

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Summary

Study reveals gut bacteria influenced by cage mates' genes.
Specific genes like St6galnac1 aid gut bacteria growth.
Social genetic effects can significantly boost gut health influence.

Your Genes Might Shape Your Roommate's Gut

New research indicates that our gut microbiome is influenced by those we live with, challenging the notion that gut health is solely an individual concern. A comprehensive study involving over 4,000 rats, published in Nature Communications on December 18, revealed that gut bacteria composition is shaped by both an individual's genes and the genes of their cage mates.

Scientists identified specific gene-microbe links, such as the St6galnac1 gene promoting the growth of the bacterium Paraprevotella. This connection, along with others involving mucin genes and the Pip gene, demonstrated how genetic factors can encourage the proliferation of certain bacteria. These bacteria can then be transmitted through social contact, leading to 'indirect genetic effects' that significantly amplify the overall genetic influence on gut health.

While conducted on rats, these findings have potential implications for human health. If shared gut microbes are influenced by genetic predispositions that spread socially, an individual's genetic makeup could indirectly impact the health of their household members. The study also hints at possible links between these genetic-microbial interactions and diseases like COVID-19 and IgA nephropathy.