RESEARCHERS have uncovered how fecal metabolites interact with gut microbes in Crohn’s disease, revealing signals that may drive inflammation and microbial imbalance. The study suggests that targeting these metabolic shifts could offer novel ways to manage this chronic condition.
Exploring Crohn’s Disease Through Microbiome and Metabolite Analysis
Crohn’s disease is a long-term inflammatory bowel disorder affecting millions worldwide. Metabolites, small molecules produced by cells or microbes, play a key role in disease mechanisms. By analysing paired fecal and serum metabolomics alongside microbial composition, scientists aimed to map the interactions that contribute to Crohn’s disease and identify potential targets for intervention.
Methods and Key Findings in Crohn’s Disease Study
The study included 202 serum and 294 fecal samples from 80 Crohn’s disease patients and 43 healthy controls. Using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and V4-16S sequencing plus shotgun metagenomics, researchers identified 6602 significant correlations between fecal metabolites and microbes. Five fecal carbohydrates, including stachyose, glucose, raffinose, trehalose, and fructose, were linked to oral bacteria migrating to the gut, such as Veillonella parvula, Veillonella dispar, and Streptococcus. Additionally, arachidonic acid and three of its derivatives were associated with CD-enriched bacteria like Ruminococcus gnavus and Fusobacteria. Active Crohn’s disease, identified by clinical symptoms or elevated CRP and fecal calprotectin, showed heterogeneous metabolic profiles. Serum metabolites were the most stable over time, whereas fecal microbiome compositions were more variable. Enrichment analyses revealed decreased starch and sucrose metabolism and TCA cycle activity in serum, alongside increased fatty acid metabolism, with opposite trends in feces.
Implications for Treatment and Dietary Management
These findings suggest that specific fecal metabolites may sustain microbial imbalances and inflammation in Crohn’s disease. Understanding these interactions could inform dietary recommendations and targeted interventions to redirect metabolic pathways, potentially promoting a healthier gut environment and reducing disease severity. Future work may explore personalised strategies to restore microbial and metabolic balance, improving outcomes for Crohn’s disease patients.
Reference
Levhar N et al. Fecal metabolic signals are associated with changes in microbiota and systemic metabolic pathways in Crohn’s disease. Sci Rep. 2026;DOI:10.1038/s41598-026-38558-9.
