Microbial composition of human appendices from patients following appendectomy

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Human Microbiome Studies
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• The human appendix's function remains largely unknown, with historical views considering it vestigial.
• Limited data exist on its microbial composition, though it's hypothesized to be a reservoir for gut bacteria.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively analyze the microbial composition of the human appendix using high-throughput sequencing.
• To investigate the appendix's potential role as a microbial reservoir.

Main Methods:

• High-throughput sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene V4 region.
• Analysis of appendix samples from seven patients aged 5-25 with acute appendicitis.

Main Results:

• Significant microbial diversity and inter-individual variability were observed in appendix samples.
• Firmicutes was the dominant phylum, with Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, and Fusobacteria also prevalent.
• Oral pathogens like Gemella, Parvimonas, and Fusobacterium were identified, with Fusobacterium potentially linked to inflammation severity.

Conclusions:

• The human appendix hosts a robust and varied microbiota, distinct from other human microbiome niches.
• The appendix microbiota's composition is highly variable and may have significant, yet undiscovered, roles in human health.