Chemical transformation of xenobiotics by the human gut microbiota
Abstract
The human gut is packed with actively metabolizing microorganisms. These have a transformative effect on what we ingest—whether food, drugs, or pollutants. Koppel et al. review the distinguishing features of microbial xenobiotic metabolism, its interaction with somatic metabolism, and interindividual variation. Depending on the functional composition of microorganisms in the gut, the subsequent products may have nutritionally beneficial effects, modify pharmaceuticals, or be toxic. All of these consequences of our companion microbes can have important impacts on human health and well-being.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Pub Defense Publication
- Publication Date
- Jun 23, 2017
- Source ID
- 10.1126/science.aag2770
Entities
People
- Emily Balskus
- Nitzan Koppel
- Vayu Maini Rekdal
Organizations
- Broad Institute
- David and Lucile Packard Foundation
- Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency
- Gates Foundation
- Harvard University
- National Institutes of Health
- National Science Foundation
- Richard and Susan Smith Family Foundation
- Takeda Pharmaceutical Company