[PDF][PDF] The mouse microbiome is required for sex-specific diurnal rhythms of gene expression and metabolism

BD Weger, C Gobet, J Yeung, E Martin, S Jimenez… - Cell metabolism, 2019 - cell.com
BD Weger, C Gobet, J Yeung, E Martin, S Jimenez, B Betrisey, F Foata, B Berger, A Balvay…
Cell metabolism, 2019cell.com
The circadian clock and associated feeding rhythms have a profound impact on metabolism
and the gut microbiome. To what extent microbiota reciprocally affect daily rhythms of
physiology in the host remains elusive. Here, we analyzed transcriptome and metabolome
profiles of male and female germ-free mice. While mRNA expression of circadian clock
genes revealed subtle changes in liver, intestine, and white adipose tissue, germ-free mice
showed considerably altered expression of genes associated with rhythmic physiology …
Summary
The circadian clock and associated feeding rhythms have a profound impact on metabolism and the gut microbiome. To what extent microbiota reciprocally affect daily rhythms of physiology in the host remains elusive. Here, we analyzed transcriptome and metabolome profiles of male and female germ-free mice. While mRNA expression of circadian clock genes revealed subtle changes in liver, intestine, and white adipose tissue, germ-free mice showed considerably altered expression of genes associated with rhythmic physiology. Strikingly, the absence of the microbiome attenuated liver sexual dimorphism and sex-specific rhythmicity. The resulting feminization of male and masculinization of female germ-free animals is likely caused by altered sexual development and growth hormone secretion, associated with differential activation of xenobiotic receptors. This defines a novel mechanism by which the microbiome regulates host metabolism.
cell.com