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Signals triggering prophage induction in the gut microbiota.
Caroline Henrot1,2, Marie-Agnès Petit1
1Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Micalis Institute, Jouy-en-Josas, France.
Molecular Microbiology
|September 27, 2022
Summary
Bacteriophages, viruses infecting bacteria, are crucial in the gut. New research reveals gut microbes, host physiology, and diet signals trigger prophage induction, influencing gut microbiota composition.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Gut Microbiome Research
- Virology
Background:
- Bacteriophages (phages) and their role in the gut microbiota are understudied.
- Temperate phages, present in 80% of gut bacteria (lysogens), are significant but poorly understood.
- Existing research on prophage induction signals lacks relevance to the gut environment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent findings on signals that trigger prophage induction in the gut.
- To highlight the diverse factors influencing prophage induction within the intestinal environment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on prophage induction signals in the gut.
- Categorization of identified signals based on their origin.
Main Results:
- Prophage induction in the gut is influenced by three main signal categories: inter-microbial interactions, host physiological factors, and external intakes.
- The gut environment exhibits higher prophage induction rates compared to in vitro conditions.
Conclusions:
- Recent findings reveal a complex interplay of signals affecting prophage induction in the gut.
- Understanding these signals offers insights into modulating gut microbiota composition via phage dynamics.
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