Fecal dysbiosis associated with colonic hypersensitivity and behavioral alterations in chronically Blastocystis-infected rats.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Infectious gastroenteritis is a risk factor for the development of post-infectious Irritable Bowel Syndrome (PI-IBS). Recent clinical studies reported a higher prevalence of the intestinal parasite Blastocystis in IBS patients. Using a rat model, we investigated the possible association between Blastocystis infection, colonic hypersensitivity (CHS), behavioral disturbances and gut microbiota changes.

Methods

Rats were orally infected with Blastocystis subtype 4 (ST4) cysts, isolated from human stool samples. Colonic sensitivity was assessed by colorectal distension and animal behavior with an automatic behavior recognition system (PhenoTyper), the Elevated Plus Maze test and the Forced Swimming tests. Feces were collected at different time points after infection t

SUBMITTER: Defaye M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7272397 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature