CHARM: CHAracterization and ReMediation of a dysbiotic colon microbiota configuration

In recent years, the impact of the gastrointestinal microbiota on health and well-being of its human host has been established. Moreover, microbiologists have identified distinct gut microbial community constellations across individuals called enterotypes. The Bacteroides2 (B2) enterotype has been very recently associated with low faecal bacterial load, local and systemic low-grade inflammation, and poor health parameters. The CHARM project sets out to determine which lifestyle habits and health features are associated to the presence and temporal stability of this dysbiotic enterotype. We will study the functional potential of the B2 community in greater depth, determine the existence of B2 subtypes, and explore whether such subtypes can be linked with specific dysbiosis-associated diseases. Next, we will test whether statins, a drug class with anti-inflammatory effects, can modulate the microbiota from B2 to a healthier constellation in patients suffering from a B2-prevalent disease, ulcerative colitis. Successful completion of this project can lead to the discovery of new biomarkers and development of novel preventive guidelines and therapeutic strategies for gut microbiota-associated diseases.