The gut methanotroph Methylocystis intestini modulates intestinal peristalsis and fat metabolism via reducing methane levels.

ABSTRACT: Methane, a predominant component of human intestinal gas, has been reported to be associated with a reduction in intestinal transit speed, as well as correlations with elevated body mass index. While the gut methanogenic archaea that produce this gas have been studied, the countervailing role of methane-consuming bacteria (methanotrophs) within the human gut ecosystem remains a critical, under-explored area. The potential for these bacteria to act as a built-in sink for intestinal methane and thereby mitigate its negative physiological effects is unknown. Here, we isolate an unreported methanotroph from human fecal samples, classified as Methylocystis intestini. Using a mouse model, we observe that methane challenge is associated with gastrointestinal motility and fat metabolism. We then d

SUBMITTER: Zhao Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12764784 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature