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Hidden Gut Bacteria Linked to Health in Global Study

lite News Desk 2 min read

At a glance

  • Researchers identified a gut bacteria group called CAG-170
  • CAG-170 was found at higher levels in healthy individuals
  • Study analyzed over 11,000 samples from 39 countries

A research team at the University of Cambridge studied gut bacteria and found a group known as CAG-170 that was more common in healthy people worldwide. This finding is based on an analysis of thousands of microbiome samples from multiple countries.

The study compared the presence of CAG-170 in individuals with and without various health conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, and neurological disorders. Researchers observed that CAG-170 was consistently present at higher levels in those without these conditions.

Genomic analysis of CAG-170 bacteria indicated that these microbes can produce large amounts of vitamin B12 and several enzymes that help break down carbohydrates, sugars, and fibers. The study team suggested that the vitamin B12 produced by these bacteria may primarily support other gut microbes, rather than the human host directly.

The research built upon the Unified Human Gastrointestinal Genome catalogue, which contains genetic data for more than 4,600 gut bacterial species, including over 3,000 that were previously unrecognized. This catalogue provided a foundation for identifying the CAG-170 group and its characteristics.

What the numbers show

  • Over 11,000 gut microbiome samples were analyzed
  • Samples came from individuals in 39 countries
  • The Unified Human Gastrointestinal Genome catalogue includes over 4,600 species

CAG-170 was identified as the most consistently health-associated group within what researchers call the "hidden microbiome." This conclusion was supported by three independent analytical approaches: comparing disease states, evaluating ecosystem stability, and examining links to dysbiosis.

The study suggested that CAG-170 could potentially serve as an indicator of gut microbiome health. Researchers also stated that the findings may inform future development of probiotics or dietary interventions designed to support these bacteria.

The data showed that CAG-170 bacteria were less prevalent in people with certain diseases compared to healthy individuals. This pattern was observed across a wide range of health conditions and geographic locations.

By highlighting the presence and potential functions of CAG-170, the research adds to the understanding of how specific gut bacteria may relate to overall health. The findings may guide future studies on gut microbiome composition and its role in human well-being.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.

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