Gut bacteria have evolved rapidly to digest starches in ultra-processed foods
2 days ago
- #diet
- #evolution
- #gut microbiome
- Gut bacteria evolve differently in industrialized and non-industrialized regions.
- Gene variants aiding digestion of processed food starches dominate in industrialized areas.
- Horizontal gene transfer is the mechanism for rapid bacterial evolution.
- A novel statistic identifies DNA locations where genes have risen to high frequency.
- Maltodextrin digestion gene is prominent in industrialized populations.
- Bacteria can take up DNA through various methods, including viral infection.
- Human gut bacteria strains remain with individuals for years, raising questions about DNA sharing.
- Diet may play a significant role in gut bacteria evolution and health.