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Diversity and temporal dynamics of primate milk microbiomes
Carly R Muletz-Wolz1, Naoko P Kurata1,2,3, Elizabeth A Himschoot4
1Center for Conservation Genomics, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, District of Columbia.
American Journal of Primatology
|June 21, 2019
Summary
The milk microbiome, a community of bacteria, influences infant development. This study analyzed primate milk microbiomes, finding species-specific variations and changes over lactation, impacting host-microbe relationships.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Primate Ecology
- Human Biology
Background:
- Milk serves as an early source of microbial exposure for mammalian infants.
- Milk bacteria are crucial for infant immune development, gut health, and the gut-brain axis.
- Variations in milk microbiome structure can impact infant developmental trajectories.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the structure and variation of milk microbiomes across nine primate species.
- To explore the influence of host species, lactation stage, and milk chemistry on milk microbiome composition.
- To identify a core milk microbiome shared among primate species.
Main Methods:
- 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing was used to quantify milk microbiomes.
- Samples were collected from nine primate species, including humans, over lactation.
- Milk nutrient and hormone data were analyzed alongside microbiome data.
Main Results:
- A core primate milk microbiome comprising seven bacterial operational taxonomic units (OTUs) was identified.
- Significant differences in milk microbiome composition were observed among primate species, notably in rhesus macaques, humans, and mantled howler monkeys.
- Milk's gross energy content (protein and fat) partially explained variations in microbiome composition.
- Milk microbiome composition showed predictable changes over lactation in three mothers.
Conclusions:
- Primate milk microbiomes exhibit species-specific characteristics and dynamic changes during lactation.
- Host-associated evolutionary and ecological processes shape milk microbiome structure.
- Understanding these relationships can benefit human and endangered primate health.
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