Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Apr 3: Common gut bacteria may interfere with the effectiveness of widely used medications for conditions such as migraines, depression, type 2 diabetes, and prostate cancer, a new study has revealed.

Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh and Yale University found that gut microbes can metabolize oral drugs that target G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), potentially reducing their potency. GPCR-targeting drugs include over 400 FDA-approved medications used to treat a range of health conditions.

“Understanding how these drugs interact with gut microbiota is crucial for advancing personalized medicine,” said Qihao Wu, Assistant Professor at the Pitt School of Pharmacy. “This research could lead to better drug design and optimization to ensure treatments are more effective and safer for every individual.”

The effectiveness of a drug varies based on factors such as age, genetics, and diet. However, recent findings suggest that gut bacteria can further influence drug metabolism by breaking down medications into different chemical structures, thereby altering their intended effects.

To investigate this phenomenon, researchers created a synthetic microbial community composed of 30 common gut bacteria strains. They tested 127 GPCR-targeting drugs, introducing each one individually into tubes containing the bacterial mix. The results showed that 30 of the tested drugs were metabolized by gut bacteria, with 12 experiencing significant breakdown, leading to reduced drug concentrations.

The study, published in Nature Chemistry, suggests that specific gut bacteria could diminish the effectiveness of GPCR-targeting drugs by transforming them into other compounds. However, the researchers cautioned that more studies are needed to determine the real-world impact of this interaction. They also advised patients not to alter or discontinue any medications without consulting their healthcare provider.