Why in news?
A new study by researchers in Seoul examined the gut bacteria of people with coronary artery disease (CAD) and compared them with the microbiomes of healthy volunteers. The scientists identified specific bacterial species and metabolic changes associated with heart disease. Their findings suggest that stool samples could one day be used to identify people at risk and to design diets or probiotics to prevent CAD.
Background
Coronary artery disease occurs when plaque made of cholesterol and fat builds up in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. Over time this narrowing reduces blood flow and can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, heart attacks or heart failure. CAD is a leading cause of death worldwide. Traditional risk factors include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, obesity and lack of exercise. Doctors currently use cholesterol tests, blood pressure measurements and imaging to diagnose and monitor the disease.
What the study found
- Specific bacterial signatures: By sequencing the DNA in stool samples, the researchers found fifteen bacterial species that were more common in people with coronary artery disease. Many belonged to the Lachnospiraceae family, which are known to produce substances that influence inflammation.
- Functional shifts in the microbiome: The CAD group’s gut microbes produced more compounds related to inflammation and energy metabolism, while healthy individuals had bacteria that supported balanced metabolism and reduced inflammation.
- Context matters: Species such as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Akkermansia muciniphila, usually considered beneficial, behaved differently when they came from diseased vs. healthy guts. This suggests that strains within a species can have contrasting effects.
- Potential applications: Understanding how gut bacteria contribute to CAD could lead to stool‑based screening tests and targeted probiotic or dietary interventions that reduce risk.
Understanding CAD and prevention
- Symptoms: CAD often develops silently over years. Common warning signs include chest discomfort (angina), pain in the arms or jaw, shortness of breath and fatigue with exertion.
- Diagnosis: Doctors use electrocardiograms, echocardiography, stress tests and coronary angiography to assess the extent of arterial blockage.
- Management: Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, increasing physical activity, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and controlling diabetes or high blood pressure are crucial. Medications like statins and beta‑blockers and procedures such as angioplasty or bypass surgery may be required for severe cases.
- Role of gut health: Emerging research indicates that maintaining a diverse and balanced gut microbiome through fibre‑rich foods and fermented products may contribute to heart health.
Conclusion
The link between gut bacteria and coronary artery disease opens up a promising new avenue in preventive cardiology. By identifying harmful microbial patterns and encouraging beneficial ones through diet and lifestyle, people may be able to lower their risk of heart disease. Future studies will refine these findings and translate them into practical screening tools and treatments.
Sources: SciTechDaily