A team of researchers found thatBacteria and fungi in the gastrointestinal tractof children and volatile organic compounds in household chemicals correlate with each other. Such research could lead to a better understanding of such effects on human health.
Gut microbiome and volatile organic compounds
The intestinal flora is a community of microbes located in the intestinal tract. This has become of increasing interest to researchers in recent years. The bacteria in the gut are thought to influence many processes, from nutrient absorption to our immunity. An unhealthy gut microbiome is implicated in diseases ranging from obesity to asthma and dementia. In the study, researchers measured volatile organic compounds in the blood and urine of 69 toddlers and preschool children. They then examined the children's intestinal microbiomes using stool samples. These included phthalates used in detergents, plastic clothing such as raincoats, shower curtains and personal care products such as soap, shampoo and hairsprays. People are exposed to such chemicals in the air and dust in their homes every day. This is especially true for young children, who may experience such exposure through crawling on carpets or frequently chewing objects.
So the researchers found that children with higher levels of chemicals in their blood had differences in their gut microbiome. Children with higher levels in their blood had a reduction in the amount and diversity of bacteria, while elevated phthalates were linked to a reduction in fungal populations. Such a correlation between chemicals and less common bacterial organisms is particularly strong and perhaps most worrying. Surprisingly, the research team also found that the children who had high levels of chemical compounds in their blood also had different types of bacteria in their gut. These are used by the body to cleanse toxic chemicals. Bacteria that filter such substances are used for bioremediation to break down persistent halogenated chemicals such as dry cleaning solvents from the environment. These bacteria are not normally found in the human intestine.
Health effects
Finding the elevated levels of such a type of bacteria in the gut means that microbiomes are trying to correct themselves. So the authors hope thatthis studyto use the information obtained. This allows for a diagnostic tool for humans and potentially future probiotic interventions to improve health outcomes. Although these data do not represent causation, they provide an indication of the types of organisms that may be affected by such exposure to these compounds. They also provide a springboard for future research. Furthermore, a holistic understanding of the interactions between artificial chemicals, the gut microbiome and human health is a crucial step in promoting public health.
