University of BC researchers have discovered surprising links between micronutrient deficiencies and the composition of gut microbiomes in early life that could explain why antibiotic resistance has increased around the world.
The team investigated how deficiencies in critical micronutrients such as vitamin A, B12, folate, iron and zinc affected the community of bacteria, viruses, fungi and other microbes living in the digestive tract.
They found that these deficiencies led to significant changes in the gut microbiome of the mice—notably an alarming expansion of bacteria and fungi known to be opportunistic pathogens.
Importantly, the micronutrient-deficient mice also showed higher enrichment of genes that have been linked to antibiotic resistance.
Micronutrient deficiency is an overlooked factor in the global antibiotic resistance debate. This is an important discovery
y, as it suggests that nutrient deficiencies can make the gut environment more conducive to the development of antibiotic resistance, which is a major global health concern.”
Dr. Paula Littlejohn, postdoctoral researcher in UBC’s department of medical genetics and pediatrics, and BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute
Bacteria naturally possess these genes as a defense mechanism. Certain circumstances, such as antibiotic pressure or nutrient stress, cause an increase in these mechanisms. This poses a threat that could render many powerful antibiotics ineffective and lead to a future where common infections could become deadly.
Antibiotic resistance is often attributed to the overuse and misuse of antibiotics, but Dr. Littlejohn and her colleagues at UBC suggests that the “hidden hunger” of micronutrient deficiencies is another important factor.
“Globally, approximately 340 million children under the age of five suffer from multiple micronutrient deficiencies, which not only affect their development, but also significantly alter their gut microbiomes,” said Dr Littlejohn. “Our findings are particularly concerning as these children are often prescribed antibiotics for malnutrition-related illnesses. Ironically, their gut microbiome may be primed for antibiotic resistance due to underlying micronutrient deficiencies.”
The study, published this week in Nature Microbiology, offers critical insights into the far-reaching consequences of micronutrient deficiencies in early life. It highlights the need for comprehensive strategies to address malnutrition and its health ripple effects. Addressing micronutrient deficiencies is more than addressing malnutrition, it can also be a critical step in combating the global scourge of antibiotic resistance.
Source:
Journal Reference:
Littlejohn, PT, et al. (2023). Multiple micronutrient deficiencies in early life induce multibiota alterations in the gut microbiome and intrinsic antibiotic resistance genes in mice. Nature Microbiology. doi.org/10.1038/s41564-023-01519-3.
