Analysis of gut bacteriome of in utero arsenic-exposed mice using 16S rRNA-based metagenomic approach
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Date
2023-09
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Abstract
Introduction: Approximately 200 million people worldwide are affected by arsenic toxicity emanating from the consumption of drinking water containing
inorganic arsenic above the prescribed maximum contaminant level. The current
investigation deals with the role of prenatal arsenic exposure in modulating the
gut microbial community and functional pathways of the host.
Method: 16S rRNA-based next-generation sequencing was carried out to
understand the effects of in utero 0.04 mg/kg (LD) and 0.4 mg/kg (HD) of arsenic
exposure. This was carried out from gestational day 15 (GD-15) until the birth of
pups to understand the alterations in bacterial diversity. Results: The study focused on gestational exposure to arsenic and the altered
gut microbial community at phyla and genus levels, along with diversity indices. A
significant decrease in firmicutes was observed in the gut microbiome of mice
treated with arsenic. Functional analysis revealed that a shift in genes involved
in crucial pathways such as insulin signaling and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
pathways may lead to metabolic diseases in the host.