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Author Spotlight: In Vitro Investigations of Circadian Rhythms in Multicellular Systems
Published on: February 16, 2024
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Microbial rhythms - a new target to promote health?
Elizaveta Gorbunova1, Marjolein Heddes2, Daan R van der Veen1
1Chronobiology Section, School of Biosciences, University of Surrey, GU27XH, Guildford, UK.
Trends in Microbiology
|November 27, 2025
Summary
Daily rhythms in gut microbes are known, but mechanisms and health impacts are unclear. Targeting these microbial oscillations offers new strategies for metabolic and inflammatory diseases.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Human Health
- Chronobiology
Background:
- Daily dynamics in human gut microbiota composition and function are recognized.
- Molecular mechanisms driving these microbial rhythms and their health impacts remain largely unknown.
- Disrupted microbial oscillations are linked to metabolic diseases (obesity, type 2 diabetes) and inflammatory conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To shift from observational studies to experimental approaches targeting microbial rhythms.
- To uncover causal relationships between microbial oscillations and host health.
- To explore novel microbiota-based strategies for health promotion and disease prevention.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing in vivo and in vitro models to investigate microbial oscillations.
- Examining the influence of signaling cues and dietary patterns on microbial rhythms.
- Assessing the impact of microbial rhythmicity on host metabolic and immune functions.
Main Results:
- Experimental targeting of microbial rhythms can elucidate causal links to health outcomes.
- Signaling cues and diet significantly influence microbial oscillations.
- Microbial rhythmicity affects host metabolic and immune functions.
Conclusions:
- Manipulating microbial rhythmicity offers a new frontier for therapeutic interventions.
- Targeting microbial clocks can lead to novel microbiota-based health strategies.
- Understanding and controlling microbial oscillations is crucial for preventing and treating diseases.
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