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Diseases

Gut Microbiome Variations Linked to Geographic Location and Human Health

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Research has shown that geographic location appears to play a significant role in shaping the genetic variations seen within gut microbial species. A study assessed 32,152 gut metagenomics samples from 24,829 individuals, covering 241 phenotypes, including geographic location, age, disease status, and lifestyle factors. The study found that the genetic structure of human gut microbiome strains was related to geographic location, with people from the same country or geographical location showing more similar bacteria, except for Europe and North America which showed similar 'clusters'.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study analyzed 32,152 gut metagenomics samples from 24,829 individuals and found that the genetic structure of human gut microbiome strains was related to geographic location.
  • People living in the same country or geographical location tended to have more similar bacteria, with the exception of Europe and North America which showed similar 'clusters'.
  • A specific clade of bacterium, Ruminococcus gnavus, was more prevalent in nonagenarians (people aged 90-99), but it is unclear if this suggests a link to healthy aging.
  • A clade of Collinsella bacteria was more prevalent in patients with melanoma and prostate cancer, suggesting a possible link to these diseases.
  • The study suggests that certain gut bacteria may be more beneficial for specific populations, and that personalized types of microbial interventions may be more effective.

Statistics:

  • 32,152 gut metagenomics samples were analyzed from 24,829 individuals.
  • 241 phenotypes were assessed, including geographic location, age, disease status, and lifestyle factors.
  • 34 countries were represented in the dataset.
  • The study found that 25% of the genetic variation in the gut microbiome was attributed to geographic location.

Sources:

  • Cell. doi: [not available] "Global genetic diversity of human gut microbiome species is related to geographic location and host health" by S. Andreu-Sánchez, et al.

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