Gut bacterial regulation of primate adaptive thermogenesis at high altitude

Adaptive thermogenesis is a fundamental physiological process by which mammals maintain their body temperature through shivering and non-shivering thermogenesis to adapt to environmental changes. The activation of brown adipose tissue (BAT) is the core of non-shivering thermogenesis. However, the specific mechanisms by which gut-derived bacteria trigger BAT to activate adaptive thermogenesis remain poorly understood. Environmental variations across different altitudes create unique temperature gradients, providing an ideal condition for identifying bacteria associated with cold adaptation. In this study, we identified Pantoea ananatis, a highland-enriched bacterium, as a key species regulating adaptive thermogenesis and lipid metabolism in Macaca mulatta.

Through multi-omics and gavage experiments, we discovered that the gut microbiota of high-altitude macaques can enhance the nutritional absorption capacity of the small intestine of mice, increase the concentration of propionic acid, activate the glycerolipid metabolism and strengthen lipid metabolism. Furthermore, we found that P. ananatis, as one of the main effect bacteria of the high-altitude gut microbiota, can activate BAT, reduce white adipose tissue (WAT) storage, and enhance triglyceride metabolism. Finally, we preliminarily verified that ferulic acid, as one of the potential effector metabolites of P. ananatis, also contributes to the reduction of WAT accumulation.

Our work uncovers P. ananatis as a high-altitude-adapted potential probiotic that activates BAT and promotes systemic fat reduction through a gut microbiota-driven mechanism. This breakthrough provides a safe, effective alternative to cold-induced thermogenesis, with profound implications for obesity intervention. Video Abstract.