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Functional divergence in gastrointestinal microbiota in physically-separated genetically identical mice.

G B Rogers¹, J Kozlowska², J Keeble²

¹1] Immunity, Infection, and Inflammation Program, Mater Research Institute - University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Australia [2] King's College London, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, London, SE1 9NH, UK [3] SAHMRI Infection and Immunity Theme, School of Medicine, Flinders University, Bedford Park, Adelaide, Australia.

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|June 26, 2014

Summary

Gut microbiota composition varies significantly even in genetically identical mice housed separately. This microbial variation can impact research outcomes, affecting the reliability of studies using these animal models.

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Area of Science:

Microbiology
Animal Models
Physiology

Background:

The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in host physiology.
Understanding microbial variation in research animals is essential for experimental reproducibility.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the extent of gut microbiota variation in genetically identical mice housed in different units.
To assess the impact of housing conditions on gut microbial composition and metabolism.

Main Methods:

Analysis of gut microbiota composition and metabolism in genetically identical C57BL/6 mice.
Comparison of microbial profiles from mice housed in separate controlled units within a single facility.

Main Results:

Significant divergence in both the composition and metabolic functions of the gut microbiota was observed.
Microbial differences were detected between genetically identical mice housed in distinct but controlled environments.

Conclusions:

Genetically identical mice can exhibit substantial gut microbiota variation based on housing.
This divergence poses a potential confounding factor for experimental studies relying on mammalian models, impacting data interpretation and reproducibility.