Why in News?

A major study reported that South Asian gut microbiomes are distinct from those reported in other regions and are influenced by diet, culture, geography and lifestyle.

What is Gut Microbiome?

The gut microbiome is the community of microorganisms living in the gastrointestinal tract.

It includes:

  • Bacteria
  • Viruses
  • Fungi
  • Other microorganisms

Functions

Gut microorganisms contribute to:

  • Digestion
  • Nutrient absorption
  • Vitamin production
  • Immune regulation
  • Gut-barrier maintenance
  • Metabolic regulation

South Asian Study

The research involved 575 healthy adults from 10 South Asian communities and used the South Asian MicroBiome ARray (SAMBAR).

Significance

Could help develop:

  • Microbiome-based diagnostics
  • Personalised nutrition
  • Precision medicine
  • Region-specific interventions for lifestyle diseases

UPSC Relevance

Important connection:
Urbanisation → dietary change → microbiome alteration → metabolic diseases

Prelims Pointer: Gut microbiome → microorganisms + digestion + immunity + metabolism.