The role of the colon microbiota in the Mexican children obesity

Background Obesity is epidemic in Mexico, and among several other factors, the colon microbiota which produces short chain fatty acids by fermentation of undigested carbohydrates, plays an important role. Changes in the colon microbial diversity of Mexican children may affect nutrient absorption and contribute to development of obesity. Method Normal-weight (n=81), overweight (n=29), and obese Mexican children (n=80) aged 9-11 were selected. V3-16S rDNA libraries were prepared from fecal DNA and high-throughput sequenced1. After QIIME analysis of data, metabolic profile was done using PICRUSt2. Results The bacterial genera Blautia spp, Faecalibacterium spp and Coprococcus spp were significantly increased in overweight and obese children. Principal component analysis revealed association of these bacteria with increased BMI and triglycerides in overweight and obese children. Functional profile prediction disclosed that fatty acids, and lipid biosynthesis functional genes were significantly more abundant in obese children. Three different enterotypes were identified associated to these changes. Conclusion We conclude that a particular colon microbiota imbalance with different enterotype patterns in overweight and obese children, increases fatty acid and lipid production. These changes are associated with the increase of BMI and triglycerides in overweight and obese children.