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The gut microbiome influences host diet selection behavior.

Brian K Trevelline1,2,3, Kevin D Kohl1

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The gut microbiome influences animal diet selection. Mice with microbiota from herbivores chose high-protein diets, while others chose low-protein diets, impacting foraging behavior.

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Area of Science:

  • Animal behavior
  • Microbiome research
  • Nutritional ecology

Background:

  • Diet selection is crucial for animal survival and evolution.
  • Nutrient availability significantly impacts dietary choices.
  • The gut microbiome metabolizes nutrients, suggesting a potential role in diet selection.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To test if gut microbiota composition influences host diet selection.
  • To investigate the role of the gut microbiome in mediating nutrient availability and foraging behavior.

Main Methods:

  • Germ-free mice were colonized with gut microbiota from three distinct rodent species (herbivore, omnivore, carnivore).
  • Dietary macronutrient selection (protein:carbohydrate ratio) was assessed.
  • Tryptophan metabolism and plasma tryptophan levels were analyzed.
  • Intestinal morphology was examined.

Main Results:

  • Herbivore-conventionalized mice selected diets with a higher protein:carbohydrate ratio.
  • Omnivore- and carnivore-conventionalized mice selected diets with a lower protein:carbohydrate ratio.
  • Tryptophan metabolism and availability correlated with carbohydrate intake.
  • Herbivore-conventionalized mice showed enlarged intestinal compartments for microbial fermentation.

Conclusions:

  • Gut microbiota composition can significantly influence host diet selection behavior.
  • Microbiota may mediate diet selection by altering essential amino acid availability, such as tryptophan.
  • This reveals a novel mechanism connecting the gut microbiome to host foraging strategies.