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An In Vitro Batch-culture Model to Estimate the Effects of Interventional Regimens on Human Fecal Microbiota
Published on: July 31, 2019
Faecal microbiota in lean and obese dogs.
Stefanie Handl1, Alexander J German, Shelley L Holden
1Institute of Animal Nutrition and Functional Plant Compounds, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria. stefanie.handl@vetmeduni.ac.at
FEMS Microbiology Ecology
|January 11, 2013
Summary
Obese pet dogs showed higher levels of Actinobacteria and Roseburia in their gut microbiota. Further research is needed to clarify the role of intestinal microbiota in canine obesity.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Science
- Microbiology
- Canine Health
Background:
- Obesity is prevalent in dogs, yet its connection to gut microbiota remains understudied.
- Previous research indicates a link between obesity and altered intestinal microbiota in other species.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate potential associations between intestinal microbiota composition and obesity in dogs.
- To compare the gut microbial profiles of lean and obese pet dogs, as well as research dogs under different feeding conditions.
Main Methods:
- 16S rRNA gene pyrosequencing and quantitative real-time PCR were employed.
- Faecal microbiota composition was analyzed in pet dogs (lean vs. obese) and research dogs (ad libitum vs. control feeding).
Main Results:
- Firmicutes, Fusobacteria, and Actinobacteria were the dominant phyla.
- Obese pet dogs exhibited significantly higher abundance of Actinobacteria and the genus Roseburia.
- The order Clostridiales increased in research dogs fed ad libitum.
Conclusions:
- Canine intestinal microbiota is diverse with significant inter-individual variation.
- Factors beyond body condition, such as diet and lifestyle, may influence microbiota composition in pet dogs.
- Further investigation is required to definitively establish the role of intestinal microbiota in canine obesity.
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