Drug-induced constipation alters gut microbiota stability leading to physiological changes in the host (1118.2)

Gut microbes play a significant role in development and maintenance of intestinal functions, but can contribute to pathogenesis of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders when host-microbiome relationship is perturbed. In this study we sought to examine how constipation affects microbiome, and how these alterations in turn affect the host. Adult C57Bl/6 mice were treated with 0.1% Loperamide in drinking water for 7 days to induce constipation. Loperamide-treated mice had increased GI transit time, indicating constipation. Bacterial DNA analysis by HiSeq sequencing showed decreased Firmicutes and increased Bacteroidetes in constipated mice. Microbiome metabolic potential was measured with tetrazolium dye assay and showed shift toward increased sugar metabolism in Loperamide-treated mice. Microbial metabolites were measured by GC-MS, and showed lower butyrate concentration in constipated mice. To determine constipation effects on the host, we introduced microbiota from constipated donors to germ-free recipients. Th...