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Baby, It's Cold Outside: Host-Microbiota Relationships Drive Temperature Adaptations
Sol Gomez de la Torre Canny1, John F Rawls1
1Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
Cell Host & Microbe
|December 15, 2015
Summary
Mammals adapt to cold via physiological changes, including thermogenesis and increased nutrient absorption. A recent study reveals that the intestinal microbiota plays a key role in facilitating these cold adaptations.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Microbiology
- Mammalian Biology
Background:
- Mammals exhibit significant physiological adaptations to cold environments.
- These adaptations include increased thermogenesis, heightened dietary energy intake, and improved intestinal absorption.
- The role of the intestinal microbiota in these cold-induced changes is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of the intestinal microbiota in mammalian adaptation to cold temperatures.
- To identify microbial mechanisms that support thermogenesis and nutrient absorption in cold conditions.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of mammalian physiological responses under cold exposure.
- Investigation of the intestinal microbiota composition and function.
- Correlation of microbial changes with host metabolic and absorptive capacities.
Main Results:
- The intestinal microbiota is crucial for facilitating key cold adaptations in mammals.
- Microbial activity supports thermogenesis and enhances the capacity for intestinal absorption.
- Specific microbial pathways are implicated in mediating these physiological responses.
Conclusions:
- The intestinal microbiota is an essential component of mammalian adaptation to cold.
- Targeting the gut microbiota may offer novel strategies for enhancing cold resilience.
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