A novel method for precise endoscopic sampling of duodenal microbiota

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Microbiology
• Endoscopic Technology

Background:

• Duodenal microbiota composition is linked to gastrointestinal health.
• Current endoscopic biopsy methods risk sample contamination, compromising microbiota analysis.
• Accurate duodenal microbiota profiling is crucial for diagnosing digestive diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel endoscopic channel plug for improved duodenal microbiota sampling.
• To enhance the accuracy and reliability of duodenal microbiota analysis.
• To facilitate better clinical diagnosis of gastrointestinal conditions.

Main Methods:

• A novel accessory, the endoscopic channel plug, was designed to maintain a sterile working channel during duodenoscopy.
• Microbiota samples were collected using traditional endoscopy, modified endoscopy with the channel plug, and from the oral cavity.
• 16S rRNA sequencing and PCR analysis were performed on all collected samples.

Main Results:

• Samples collected with the channel plug showed higher PCR product concentrations and a greater number of operational taxonomic units (335).
• Significant differences in bacterial taxonomic composition (phylum and genus levels) were observed between sampling methods.
• The channel plug method revealed a higher abundance of Veillonella compared to traditional methods and oral cavity samples.

Conclusions:

• The endoscopic channel plug significantly improves the quality and comprehensiveness of duodenal microbiota sampling.
• This novel method provides more accurate data for understanding the duodenal microbiome.
• Enhanced duodenal microbiota profiling supports improved clinical diagnosis of gastrointestinal diseases.