Research Library

Explore our curated collection of the most recent and relevant research studies in microbiome medicine. Stay informed on groundbreaking discoveries, innovative therapies, and the evolving understanding of microbiome health for companion animals.


Featured Research

Characterization of the Gut Microbiome in Healthy Dogs and Dogs with Diabetes Mellitus

Kwong et al. (2023). Animals.

This study delves into the connection between gut health and diabetes in dogs. By analyzing the gut microbiome of healthy and diabetic dogs, researchers identified key differences in bacterial communities, potentially leading to innovative prevention and treatment strategies for canine diabetes.

Insights into the Interplay Between Gut Microbiota and Lipid Metabolism in the Obesity Management of Canines and Felines

Li et al. (2024). Journal of Animal Science and Biotechnology.

Obesity is a prevalent chronic disease that has significant negative impacts on humans and our companion animals, including dogs and cats. Obesity occurs with multiple comorbidities, such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and osteoarthritis in dogs and cats. A direct link between lipid metabolism dysregulation and obesity-associated diseases has been implicated. However, the understanding of such pathophysiology in companion animals is limited. This review aims to address the role of lipid metabolism in various metabolic disorders associated with obesity, emphasizing the involvement of the gut microbiota.

Microbiome Responses to Oral Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in a Cohort of Domestic Dogs

Rojas et al (2024). Veterinary Sciences.

The study investigates the impact of oral-fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) on the microbiomes of fifty-four dogs with chronic gastrointestinal issues. Results showed an increase in beneficial bacteria like Butyricicoccus and Faecalibacterium post-FMT, with microbiome changes influenced by diet and antibiotic history, highlighting the potential of FMT in modulating canine gut health.

Microbiome Responses to Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in Cats with Chronic Digestive Issues

Rojas et al (2023). Veterinary Sciences.

This study explores the effects of fecal microbiota transplants (FMTs) in domestic cats with chronic digestive issues using oral capsules containing lyophilized stool. Changes in bacterial composition, including shifts in Clostridium, Collinsella, and Escherichia, were observed post-FMT, as well as donors sharing 13% of their bacterial variants with recipientsThe study suggests that FMT outcomes are influenced by the recipient's symptoms, diet, and donor microbiome.

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Figure 11: Engraftment of donor bacteria in TRE dogs receiving FMT treatment. We compared the presence of bacterial amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) found in the donor compared to FMT recipients before and after FMT treatment (excluding ASVs shared between donors and recipients pre-FMT). (A) Plots of donor bacterial amplicon sequence variant (ASV) engraftment rates across FMT recipients; 100% engraftment would indicate that all of the donor ASVs that could be shared were shared. (B) Taxonomic assignments of the donor ASVs that were most frequently shared with FMT recipients.

Oral Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in Dogs with Tylosin-Responsive Enteropathy—A Proof-of-Concept Study

Hanifeh et al. (2024). Veterinary Sciences.

This clinical trial evaluated the impact of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) on dogs with tylosin-responsive enteropathy (TRE), focusing on clinical symptoms, fecal consistency, and microbiome composition. The trial had four phases, including screening, re-introduction of tylosin, treatment with FMT or placebo, and a follow-up. Both FMT and placebo groups showed improved microbiome diversity after treatment. On average, 30.4% of donor bacterial strains engrafted in FMT recipients.

Species-level characterization of the core microbiome in healthy dogs using full-length 16S rRNA gene sequencing

Rojas et al (2024). Frontiers in Veterinary Science.

This study explores the species-level composition of the fecal microbiome in 286 healthy dogs in North America using full-length 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Researchers identified 23 bacterial species in the core microbiome, which made up 75% of the microbiome on average. This study highlights how factors like diet, geographic region, and body weight influenced microbiome diversity.

Insights into the Interplay Between Gut Microbiota and Lipid Metabolism in the Obesity Management of Canines and Felines

Li et al. (2024). Journal of Animal Science and Biotechnology.

Obesity is a prevalent chronic disease that has significant negative impacts on humans and our companion animals, including dogs and cats. Obesity occurs with multiple comorbidities, such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and osteoarthritis in dogs and cats. A direct link between lipid metabolism dysregulation and obesity-associated diseases has been implicated. However, the understanding of such pathophysiology in companion animals is limited. This review aims to address the role of lipid metabolism in various metabolic disorders associated with obesity, emphasizing the involvement of the gut microbiota.

Microbiome Responses to Oral Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in a Cohort of Domestic Dogs

Rojas et al (2024). Veterinary Sciences.

The study investigates the impact of oral-fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) on the microbiomes of fifty-four dogs with chronic gastrointestinal issues. Results showed an increase in beneficial bacteria like Butyricicoccus and Faecalibacterium post-FMT, with microbiome changes influenced by diet and antibiotic history, highlighting the potential of FMT in modulating canine gut health.

Individualized microbiotas dictate the impact of dietary fiber on colitis sensitivity

Bonazzi et al (2024). Microbiome.

This study found that individual differences in microbiota composition significantly influence how dietary fiber impacts colitis sensitivity. Personalized microbiota profiles can determine whether dietary fiber will have a protective or harmful effect on colitis.

Figure 3 The microbiomes of the dorsal tongue and gingival sulcus cluster separately from the microbiomes at other oral sites. (A) PCA ordinations based on Aitchison distances calculated from species-level bacterial abundances, color-coded by oral site. Healthy cats are on the left and cats diagnosed with FCGS are on the right. (B) The same ordination but meant to highlight the separation of two sites (dorsal tongue; gingival sulcus) from the rest.

The Oral Microbiome across Oral Sites in Cats with Chronic Gingivostomatitis, Periodontal Disease, and Tooth Resorption Compared with Healthy Cats

Anderson et al (2023). Animals.

This study investigates the role of the oral microbiome in Feline Chronic Gingivostomatitis (FCGS), a persistent inflammatory condition in cats. Researchers analyzed plaque samples from cats with FCGS, healthy cats, and cats with periodontitis or tooth resorption. Results showed significant microbiome imbalances (dysbiosis) in cats with FCGS, with notable differences in bacterial diversity across oral conditions. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the bacterial changes in FCGS and may help in improving diagnosis and treatment for this condition.

Recovery of 52 bacterial genomes from the fecal microbiome of the domestic cat using Hi-C proximity ligation and shotgun metagenomics

Rojas et al (2023). Microbiology Resource Announcements.

This study used Hi-C proximity ligation with shotgun sequencing to retrieve metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) from the fecal microbiomes of two domestic cats (Felis catus). The genomes were assessed for completeness and contamination, classified taxonomically, and annotated for putative antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes.

Microbiome Responses to Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in Cats with Chronic Digestive Issues

Rojas et al (2023). Veterinary Sciences.

This study explores the effects of fecal microbiota transplants (FMTs) in domestic cats with chronic digestive issues using oral capsules containing lyophilized stool. Changes in bacterial composition, including shifts in Clostridium, Collinsella, and Escherichia, were observed post-FMT, as well as donors sharing 13% of their bacterial variants with recipientsThe study suggests that FMT outcomes are influenced by the recipient's symptoms, diet, and donor microbiome.

Effect of the administration of a lyophilised faecal capsules on the intestinal microbiome of dogs: a pilot study

Carapeto et al (2023). Genes.

This pilot study evaluated the effects of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) using oral capsules in dogs with diarrhea. Five dogs were monitored for four months, and fecal consistency improved in two of the three dogs with diarrhea, with stable Bristol scale values after treatment. The microbiome gradually shifted toward a healthier balance, and the capsules' influence persisted throughout the study.

Characterization of the Gut Microbiome in Healthy Dogs and Dogs with Diabetes Mellitus

Kwong et al. (2023). Animals.

This study delves into the connection between gut health and diabetes in dogs. By analyzing the gut microbiome of healthy and diabetic dogs, researchers identified key differences in bacterial communities, potentially leading to innovative prevention and treatment strategies for canine diabetes.

Characterization of the blood microbiome and comparison with the fecal microbiome in healthy dogs and dogs with GI disease

Scarsella et al (2023). Veterinary Sciences.

This study investigates the blood microbiome in healthy dogs and dogs with chronic gastroenteropathies. Blood and fecal samples were collected from 18 healthy and 19 sick dogs, and the bacterial DNA was analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The results showed significant differences in the microbiome diversity between the two groups, with evidence suggesting bacterial translocation from the gut to the bloodstream. This research highlights the potential of using the blood microbiome as a diagnostic tool for monitoring gastrointestinal diseases in dogs.

Isolation of Oral Bacteria, Measurement of the C-Reactive Protein, and Blood Clinical Parameters in Dogs with Oral Tumor

Setthawongsin et all (2023). Veterinary Medicine International.

This study investigated the bacteria, C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, and blood profiles in dogs with and without oral masses. In dogs with oral cancer or metastasis, higher levels of inflammatory markers, such as CRP and altered blood ratios, were observed compared to healthy dogs. Bacterial differences were noted, with Neisseria spp. being most common in healthy dogs, while Escherichia spp. increased in dogs with metastasis. The findings suggest a link between bacterial changes and inflammation in dogs with oral cancer, highlighting the need for further research on the relationship between specific bacteria, CRP, and cancer types.

The Kitty Microbiome Project: Defining the Healthy Fecal “Core Microbiome” in Pet Domestic Cats

Ganz et al (2022). Veterinary Sciences.

This study provides a fecal microbiome dataset for healthy domestic cats, examining how age, diet, and living environment affect microbiome composition. Thirty core bacterial genera were identified, with Prevotella, Bacteroides, and Blautia among the most abundant. These comparisons of the microbiome across age, diet, and living conditions provides valuable insights for veterinarians, pet owners, and pet-related industries.

Effect of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation on the Fecal Microbiome of Healthy Dogs Treated with Antibiotics

Dwyer et al. (2022). Veterinary Sciences, Vol.9 (324), 2022.

Antibiotics cause profound fecal microbiome alterations. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) administered orally or per enema on fecal microbiome recovery after tylosin treatment of healthy dogs.

Fecal Microbiota Transplantation Capsule Therapy via Oral Route for Combating Atopic Dermatitis in Dogs

Ural, K. (2021). Ankara Üniversitesi Veteriner Fakültesi Dergisi.

A study to examine efficacy and toleration of oral capsule FMT treatment in dogs with atopic dermatitis.

Faecal Microbiome Transplantation as a Solution to Chronic Enteropathies in Dogs: A Case Study of Beneficial Microbial Evolution

Berlanda et al. (2021). Animals 2021, 11, 1433

Chronic enteropathies are common gastrointestinal diseases in domestic dogs characterised by long-term duration, often impairing quality of life both for pets and owners. In this work, we report the encouraging results of a faecal transplantation on a 9-year-old dog suffering from chronic enteropathy for the last 3 years.

Fecal microbiota transplantation via colonoscopy in a dog with Clostridioides (Clostridium) difficile infection

Diniz et al. (2021). Ciência Rural, Vol. 51(3), 2021.

In dogs, antimicrobial therapy for Clostridioides (Clostridium) difficile infection (CDI) is based solely on metronidazole, leaving limited treatment options in case of recurrent disease. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has been successfully used in humans with recurrent CDI, whereas the usefulness of this approach is largely unknown in dogs. In the present study, a dog with a chronic-recurring diarrhea was treated with FMT via colonoscopy. The present research suggested that FMT could be a useful tool to treat recurrent CDI in dogs.

Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in Dogs

Chaitman, J., & Gaschen, F. (2021). Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, Vol 51, Issue 1, 2021, pages 219-233.

In canine medicine, FMT administered via enema seems to be beneficial in acute gastrointestinal disorders. Repeat FMT treatments shortened duration to return of formed feces and hospital stay in puppies with parvovirus infections. In addition, a single FMT was superior to metronidazole in the treatment of acute enteritis. The effects of FMT in chronic gastrointestinal disorders are much less well documented, although the existing data consisting of case reports and small case series seem to document that the technique may be beneficial in some instances. However, more data are needed to define which canine patients could be helped by FMT.

Fecal microbiota transplantation as a new treatment for canine inflammatory bowel disease

Niina et al. (2020). Bioscience of Microbiota, Food and Health, Vol. 40(2), 98-104.

In human medicine, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is an effective treatment for recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection. It has also been tested as a treatment for multiple gastrointestinal diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, only a few studies have focused on the changes in the microbiome following FMT for canine IBD. Here, we performed FMT in nine dogs with IBD using the fecal matter of healthy dogs and investigated the subsequent changes in the fecal microbiome and clinical signs.

Fecal Microbial and Metabolic Profiles in Dogs With Acute Diarrhea Receiving Either Fecal Microbiota Transplantation or Oral Metronidazole

Chaitman et al. (2020). Frontiers in Veterinary Science, Vol. 7, 2020.

The aim of this study was to characterize differences in fecal consistency, and fecal microbiota and metabolome profiles in dogs with acute diarrhea (AD) treated with either fecal microbiota transplantation as enema (FMT; n = 11) or oral metronidazole (MET; n = 7) for 7 days and observed for 28 days. Dogs treated with FMT had improved fecal consistency moreover MET dogs and their fecal microbiome and metabolome were clustered closer to the healthy control at day 28.

PHAGE Study: Effects of Supplemental Bacteriophage Intake on Inflammation and Gut Microbiota in Healthy Adults

Febvre et al (2019). Nutrients.

This study investigated the impact of consuming a commercial E. coli-targeting bacteriophage cocktail on the gut microbiome of healthy adults. In a placebo-controlled trial, participants consumed phages for 28 days. While phage consumption reduced E. coli levels, it did not significantly disrupt overall gut microbiome diversity. However, specific bacterial populations shifted, including increases in beneficial butyrate-producing bacteria. Inflammatory markers and lipid metabolism remained largely unchanged, except for a small decrease in interleukin-4. These findings suggest that bacteriophages can selectively target specific gut bacteria without broadly disrupting the microbial community.

Effects of a Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation product on fecal characteristics, nutrient digestibility, fecal fermentative end-products, fecal microbial populations, immune function, and diet palatability in adult dogs

Lin et al (2019). J Anim Sci.

A study on the effects of SCFP on fecal characteristics, apparent total tract macronutrient digestibility (ATTD), fecal fermentative end-products, fecal microbiota, immune responses, and diet palatability were tested.

Oral faecal microbiota transplantation for the treatment of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhoea in a dog: a case report

Sugito et al (2019). BMC Veterinary Research.

This case study reports the successful use of oral fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) to treat Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea in an 8-month-old French bulldog. After receiving fecal material from a healthy donor, the dog's stool consistency and frequency normalized within 2-3 days, and tests for C. difficile antigen and toxins were negative. The findings suggest that oral FMT may be an effective treatment for C. difficile-induced colitis in dogs and could have broader applications for other gastrointestinal diseases.

Post-Antibiotic Gut Mucosal Microbiome Reconstitution Is Impaired by Probiotics and Improved by Autologous FMT

Suez et al (2018). Cell.

This study compared the effects of probiotics versus autologous fecal microbiome transplantation (aFMT) on gut microbiome recovery after antibiotic use in mice and humans. Probiotics delayed gut microbiome and gene expression recovery, while aFMT resulted in a rapid and near-complete recovery. These findings suggest that probiotics may hinder post-antibiotic gut recovery, highlighting the need for alternative approaches like aFMT or personalized probiotics.

Fecal microbiota transplantation in puppies with canine parvovirus infection

Pereira et al. (2017). Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, January 2018, 1-5.

Examining diarrhea caused by parvovirus infections in dogs and lowering both the length of treatment and mortality rates through modification of the microbiome.

Efficacy and safety of the probiotic Saccharomyces boulardii for the prevention and therapy of gastrointestinal disorders"

Kelesidis et al (2012). Therapeutic Advances in Gastroenterology.

"Several clinical trials and experimental studies strongly suggest a place for Saccharomyces boulardii as a biotherapeutic agent for the prevention and treatment of several gastrointestinal diseases. S. boulardii mediates responses resembling the protective effects of the normal healthy gut flora. The multiple mechanisms of action of S. boulardii and its properties may explain its efficacy and beneficial effects in acute and chronic gastrointestinal diseases that have been confirmed by clinical trials. "

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