The Developing Rhesus Monkey Microbiome
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The Developing Rhesus Monkey Microbiome

Abstract

Noah Alexander SiegelSeptember 2023 IMMUNOLOGY Abstract The microbiome is vital for maintaining good health, with disruptions carrying signifi- cant consequences. Antibiotics, diseases, environmental changes, and biological sex can perturb the microbiome, contributing to chronic illnesses. Antibiotic use is a substantial disruptor, highlighting the need to pinpoint specific microbial species and their functions for targeted therapies. Our research examined the microbiome, utilizing 16S sequencing to gain deeper insights into microbial communities at the species level and infer their functional capacity. Early-life antibiotic exposure was found to have a lasting impact on the microbiome, with a more pronounced effect observed in males than females. These effects extended to the respiratory microbiome, demonstrating the interconnectedness of microbiome composition with physiological factors. Furthermore, our research delved into predicted metagenomic pathways in the gut and lung microbiomes, revealing shifts in metabolic functions with antibiotic treatment, particularly in pathways linked to short- chain fatty acid metabolism, highlighting the potential consequences of such alterations on host health. Advances in microbiome research stress the importance of considering sex-specific differences in microbiome responses, leading to tailored health interventions. In conclusion, this research substantiates the role of the microbiome in maintaining health and the potential impact of disruptions on the immune system. Our findings emphasize the need for targeted therapeutic strategies to mitigate the consequences of microbiome disturbances, thus advancing health and well-being.

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