Gut Instinct: How Genetics Shape Your Gut Microbiome and Methane Output
Let's dive deeper into the concept of genetic predisposition and its relation to methane production in the gut.
Genetic variants and methane production:
While genetics won’t directly increase methane production there are mechanisms by which genetics can indirectly influence methane production in the gut. These genes are involved in the metabolism of certain nutrients, such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, which can be converted into methane by the gut microbiome. Some individuals may carry genetic variants that influence their ability to deal with oxidative stress, making them more prone to high methane production.
Genes that will indirectly sway methanogen metabolism via ROS:
Research has shown that methane can be produced in aerobic conditions by eukaryotes, and this process is linked to ROS (1)
MTHFR (Methylene Tetrahydrofolate Reductase): MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) is an enzyme crucial for folate metabolism and homocysteine regulation, which indirectly affects the body's ability to manage oxidative stress. Common genetic variations in MTHFR can lead to reduced enzyme activity, potentially resulting in elevated homocysteine levels, decreased antioxidant production, and increased vulnerability to oxidative damage
CBS (Cystathionine Beta-Synthase): Cystathionine beta-synthase (CBS) is a crucial enzyme in the transsulfuration pathway, responsible for converting homocysteine and serine to cystathionine, which is then used to produce cysteine, a key component of glutathione. CBS plays an important role in regulating oxidative stress by influencing glutathione production and homocysteine levels, with mutations in the CBS gene potentially leading to homocystinuria and increased vulnerability to oxidative damage.
G6PD: Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) plays a crucial role in protecting cells against oxidative stress. G6PD is the rate-limiting enzyme in the pentose phosphate pathway, responsible for producing NADPH, which is essential for maintaining glutathione levels and protecting cells, especially red blood cells, from oxidative damage. Deficiency in G6PD can lead to increased vulnerability to oxidative stress, potentially resulting in hemolytic anemia when exposed to certain triggers like specific drugs, infections, or fava beans.
Genetic predisposition to altered microbiome and fewer competitive microbes:
Research is still exploring the impact of specific genetic variants on the microbiome:
Variants in ABO may be associated with more or less Faecalibacterium (2)
Individuals with FUT2 variants may have more or less Bifidobacterium (3)
While genetic predisposition plays a role in individual variations in methane production, it's essential to note that environmental factors, such as diet and lifestyle, also influence gut microbiome composition and function.
By understanding individual genetic variations and their impact on gut function, personalized dietary recommendations and interventions may help mitigate negative consequences and promote overall gut health.
References:
(1) https://www.mpi-marburg.mpg.de/1199834/2022-03-b
(2) https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-023-06893-w
(3) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21625510/
