A tiny solution to a growing problem

Gut microbiota are small but mighty players in our health and wellbeing, important for digestion, nutrition production, immune support and even brain and mood connection.

They are a community of living microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, fungi and archaea that live in our digestive tracks. 

But could they also be the key to understanding issues such as chronic gut and liver inflammation?

PhD candidate Charlie Roache from The University of Queensland and Mater Research is investigating how gut microbiota could be used to identify key signalling pathways recognised in these conditions. 

“In particular, I want to understand how these microorganisms may be able to assist outcomes for primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and ulcerative colitis (UC),” Mr Roache said. 

“PSC is a chronic, rare liver disease that causes inflammation, scarring and narrowing of the bile ducts inside and outside the liver.

“UC is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that causes tiny open sores in the inner lining of the large intestine."

People living with these conditions often experience unpredictable physical symptoms, alongside the emotional and psychological toll of living with a complex and somewhat invisible chronic illness that has few treatment options. 

“Bile acid homeostasis is the process that the body undertakes to make, secrete, reabsorb and recycle bile acids to help digest fats and regulate the metabolism, but they also act as signalling molecules” Mr Roache said.  

“Through my research, I want to understand how this process may contribute to these diseases.”

Cases of PSC and UC are increasing around the world, and currently the number of reliable therapies or treatments are limited. 

“Hopefully, by understanding the contributions gut microbiota has on these diseases, we can harness the microbiome to develop novel therapeutics,” Mr Roache said. 

“I’m hoping our research uncovers bacterial-derived metabolites that directly modulate key signalling pathways seen in PSC and UC. 

“These are small molecules produced when bacteria processes nutrients or food and may help us pave the way for novel therapeutics based on the gut microbiota.

“The sooner we can find effective therapies, the better we can support people living with these conditions, while also reducing the burden on our healthcare system.

“It’s a win-win for all.”