Populations that live in different regions of the world have varying taxonomic compositions. Geographical location has an impact on the microbial populations due to prominent differences in diet across geographic regions. The abundance of a certain enterotype varies from region to region, thus resulting in gut microbial differences.
So YES, geography does affect the microbiome! Read on to find out more.
What are enterotypes?
Along with DNA, our bodies also house billions of microbes, most of which are in our gut. An enterotype is essentially an individual’s ‘bacterial ecosystem’. They are clusters of bacteria in the gut that allow researchers to identify common traits among individuals. There are 3 types of gut-microbe populations – ‘enterotypes’ – namely: Bacteroides, Prevotella and Ruminococcus. Long-term diet is a major factor influencing an individual’s enterotype, which is associated with geography.
How do these enterotypes vary?
COUCH POTATO
The Bacteroides enterotype (enterotype 1) consists of microbes that get energy from proteins, therefore individuals with a protein-rich diet are most likely to be classified as enterotype 1. People living in Western countries tend to have this enterotype because their long-term diet mostly consists of fat and proteins.
A-MAIZE-ING VEGGIES
The Prevotella enterotype (enterotype 2) consists of microbes that get energy from carbohydrates, so individuals with high-fibre whole-food diets and those who consume refined carbohydrates such as sweets are most likely to be classified as enterotype 2. This enterotype is prevalent in non-Western countries, where individuals eat a diet consisting of high levels of fibre.
GRAINY BUSINESS
The Ruminococcus enterotype (enterotype 3) is not as common as the other two. Individuals that have this enterotype consume a diet rich in resistant starches and dietary fibre. This enterotype is found mainly in rural areas.
The image below shows how microbial populations vary across different geographical regions. (Click to enlarge)
Can enterotypes be changed?
It is possible for an individual’s enterotype to move along the scale from one to another depending on how they change their long-term diet. Short-term dietary changes cannot change one’s enterotype. Geographic relocation, if long-term, will have an impact on an individual’s enterotype due to the major changes in diet (if the individual changes their diet). In this way, geography does in fact have an impact on the microbiome.
Taxonomic composition refers to the identity and number of microorganisms in an area. The taxonomic composition of the gut refers to all the microorganisms that reside in the gut that aid the gut in its processes.
Enterotypes are clusters of bacteria in the gut that allow researchers to identify common traits that bring people together. It is the stratification of gut microbiota.
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About the author
Shreya Nair is a Year 3 student majoring in Biomedical Engineering at NUS. She is passionate about advancing healthcare through the engineering of medical devices and aspires to enter the field of Research and Development in the future. She has been a part of various projects in university that aim to improve pre-existing medical devices, such as devices aiding in the administration of insulin and the improvement of the heart-lung machine. Five years down the line, she sees herself pursuing a Masters degree in Biotechnology.