Effects of red meat diet on gut microbiota in mice

Abstract

We aimed to evaluate the effect of red meat diet on gut microbiota in mice. Balb/c mice at weaning were randomized into control group and red meat groups with different proportions (25%, 50%, and 75%). Mice were fed with a standard pellet diet as control group, while those were fed with different proportions of red meat diet as red meat groups. After 8 weeks, they were sacrificed and their intestinal contents were obtained for 16S rRNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. Our results showed that there were significant-structural differences among the four groups. The top-two most abundant phylum were Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes. In the red meat groups, the abundance of Bacteroidetes was increased, but the abundance of Firmicutes was decreased. At the family level, Bacteroidaceae and Family XIII were significantly higher in the high-dose group than those in the control group. There were also significant differences in abundance of many genera. In conclusion, different proportions of red meat diet may lead to changes in gut microbial flora in mice. These changes may be pathological and may be related to the frequent occurrence of many diseases.

Uncovering the link between gut microbiome, highly processed food consumption and diet quality through bioinformatics methods

“…This genus has previously been reported to be involved in starch degradation and glucose metabolism, providing energy for growth, reducing inflammation and increasing short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, contributing thereby to a balanced gastrointestinal tract [139], [140]. As for the undefined genus linked to the Muribaculaceae family, it has been inversely linked to the consumption of foods related to poorer dietary habits, like red meat [141]. Furthermore, several studies in mice have associated this family with body weight loss and a healthier diet after noting an increase in its abundance following a higher consumption of fibre and pulses [142], [143].…”

“…Conversely, Sutterella , which was more abundant in the group with poorer HEIs, has been reported to be positively correlated with the likeness of developing T2D [163]. Lachnospiraceae FCS020 group , despite being more abundant in the same HEI group, has been associated with protective properties and a healthier diet in mice [141]. Roseburia , which was more abundant in the group with healthier HEIs, has been widely reported to decrease its abundance in T2D patients [164].…”