Abstract
The global obesity epidemic constitutes a major cause of morbidity and mortality challenging public health care systems worldwide. Thus, a better understanding of its pathophysiology and the development of novel therapeutic options are urgently needed. Recently, alterations of the intestinal microbiome in the obese have been discussed as a promoting factor in the pathophysiology of obesity and as a contributing factor to related diseases such as type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. The present pilot study investigated the effect of a structured weight loss program on fecal microbiota in obese type 2 diabetics. Twelve study subjects received a low-calorie formula diet for six weeks, followed by a nine week food reintroduction and stabilization period. Fecal microbiota were determined by 16S rRNA gene sequencing of stool samples at baseline, after six weeks and at the end of the study after fifteen weeks. All study subjects lost weight continuously throughout the program. Changes in fecal microbiota were most pronounced after six weeks of low-calorie formula diet, but reverted partially until the end of the study. However, the gut microbiota phylogenetic diversity increased persistently. The abundance of Collinsella, which has previously been associated with atherosclerosis, decreased significantly during the weight loss program. This study underlines the impact of dietary changes on the intestinal microbiome and further demonstrates the beneficial effects of weight loss on gut microbiota.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02970838.
Highlights
The world is stricken by an obesity epidemic that affects over 32% of the population within the US [1], but is becoming increasingly prevalent in developing countries [2]
To further characterize the effect of dietary interventions and weight loss on the intestinal microbiome, we performed a pilot study investigating fecal microbiota characterized by 16S rRNA gene sequencing in twelve obese type 2 diabetics at several time points during a structured weight loss program
Stool samples were collected at baseline, six and fifteen weeks and the microbial community structure determined by 16S rRNA gene sequencing
Summary
The world is stricken by an obesity epidemic that affects over 32% of the population within the US [1], but is becoming increasingly prevalent in developing countries [2]. First-line treatment focuses on dietary interventions and increased physical activity If these measures fail, medication and, with increasing frequency, bariatric surgery are further possible treatment options. For a better characterization of the pathogenesis and therapy of obesity as well as type 2 diabetes, scientists have recently focused on the intestinal microbiome. This has become feasible due to the emergence of generation sequencing techniques, which have overcome the shortcomings of culturing techniques in the characterization of the mainly anaerobic gut bacteria. To further characterize the effect of dietary interventions and weight loss on the intestinal microbiome, we performed a pilot study investigating fecal microbiota characterized by 16S rRNA gene sequencing in twelve obese type 2 diabetics at several time points during a structured weight loss program
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
