World`s 1st Genomic Nutricart - Where Science Meets Nourishment
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Microbiome
The human gut contains 10^13–10^14 bacteria from thousands different species, collectively they contain >150 times more genes than the human genome. There is growing evidence that the Gut Microbiome is significantly regulated by the host genetics, i.e., 5-45% of the inter-individual variability in the microbial population can be affected by the presence of certain genetic markers. There are two ways by which host genetics can affect the microbiome;
(1) the presence of certain variants can cause anti-microbial resistance resulting in conditions like C.difficile colitis, that can alter the population of gut bacteria,
(2) The presence of certain genetic markers can provide favourable environment for specific strains to thrive. Some of the strains influenced directly by host genetics are as follows:
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FUT2 Gene variants may result in an altered composition of gut bacteria. While some FUT2 variants may place carriers at greater risk of developing certain health issues and diseases related to the gut, some variants may also provide protection against other gut issues and diseases. For instance, a specific type of variation on this gene (point mutations) can induce gut infections specifically caused by H. pylori bacteria, which can break down the gut lining and ultimately reduce the absorption of vitamin B12.