Influence of grape consumption on the human microbiome

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Nutritional Science
• Human Health

Background:

• Dietary intake of grapes is associated with positive health outcomes.
• The impact of grape consumption on the human microbiome remains largely unexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of grape consumption on human microbiome composition and function.
• To assess changes in urinary and plasma metabolites in response to grape intake.

Main Methods:

• A controlled study involving 29 healthy adults on a restricted diet.
• Sequential assessment of microbiome and metabolites after periods of grape consumption and washout.
• Analysis of alpha- and beta-diversity, taxonomic abundance, enzyme levels, KEGG pathways, and plasma/urinary metabolites.

Main Results:

• Grape consumption did not alter overall microbial diversity, except in females based on the Chao index.
• Significant shifts in taxonomic abundance (e.g., decreased Holdemania spp., increased Streptococcus thermophiles), enzyme levels, and KEGG pathways were observed.
• Metabolomic analysis revealed elevated levels of specific metabolites (e.g., 2'-deoxyribonic acid) during grape consumption, with delayed or returning effects post-consumption.

Conclusions:

• Grape consumption does not perturb the eubiotic state of the human microbiome in healthy individuals.
• Observed shifts in microbial taxonomy, function, and metabolites suggest physiological significance.
• Further research is needed to define the biological ramifications of these grape-induced microbiome alterations.