The FUT2 Gene: A Key Player in Gut Health
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The trillions of microbes that reside in our intestines, collectively called the gut microbiome, are crucial for health. When balanced properly, these microbes aid digestion, synthesize vitamins, regulate hormones, and strengthen immunity. However, when certain species overgrow, they can trigger inflammation and diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Research now shows that genetics influences our risk of microbial imbalances. Specifically, variants in the FUT2 gene impact which bacteria can thrive in our guts.
Around 20-25% of individuals of European descent possess a nonfunctional FUT2 gene variant. They are termed “non-secretors.” The FUT2 gene provides instructions for making an enzyme that builds sugar molecules on proteins lining the intestines. These sugar molecules act as food for beneficial gut microbes like Bifidobacterium. Without this enzyme, the intestinal environment becomes less hospitable for these favorable bacteria to flourish.
Studies reveal that non-secretors harbor lower microbial diversity and abundances of helpful Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species. They also possess more detrimental bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa compared to secretors. Experts speculate that non-secretors’ altered intestinal environment allows inflammatory microorganisms to occupy excess space. This may partly explain links between non-secretor status and higher Crohn’s disease risk across multiple cohorts. Specifically, those homozygous for the rs601338 non-secretor variant show a 1.64 higher odds ratio for Crohn’s.
On the other hand, beneficial microbial products like short-chain fatty acids are key for intestinal barrier defense. Non-secretors’ deficits in useful microbes may impair short-chain fatty acid availability and weaken the gut lining. Researchers propose this could enable foreign material to leak out of the intestines and trigger autoimmune responses underlying Crohn’s flares.
Currently, managing Crohn’s involves medications to reduce inflammation like steroids alongside dietary changes. Probiotic and prebiotic supplements may benefit non-secretors by directly increasing abundances of helpful bacteria. Fecal microbiota transplantation to restore lacking species also shows therapeutic potential. As we better understand links between FUT2 genetics and microbial ecosystem dynamics, clinicians can provide more personalized microbiome-targeted interventions to high-risk patients. Precision nutrition approaches customizing carbohydrate intake to meet beneficial bacteria’s “fuelling needs” also warrant investigation for sustainably nurturing a disease-free gut environment long-term.
Related Supplements
Here are some dietary supplements related to the content in this report. Click the shopping cart to purchase the supplement from our partners.
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Probiotics
Supplements containing friendly bacteria like Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium species can directly increase abundances of these beneficial microbes that are often deficient in NON-secretors.
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Prebiotics
Compounds like inulin, fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and galactooligosaccharides act as "fertilizers" to promote the growth of good bacteria in the gut. This may help compensate for the reduced carbohydrates available with FUT2 issues.
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Curcumin
The active compound in turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties. By regulating inflammatory pathways, curcumin may help counteract damage from pro-inflammatory microbes that can accumulate in NON-secretors.
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Slippery Elm
The mucilaginous fiber in slippery elm can coat and soothe the intestinal lining, potentially shielding from inflammation or leakage that may be more likely with FUT2-related microbial imbalances.
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Marshmallow Root
Similar to slippery elm, marshmallow root contains mucilaginous substances that can adhere to the gut barrier and provide protection from inflammatory compounds.
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Licorice Root
Glycyrrhizin and other compounds in licorice root have cortisol-mimicking effects to dampen inflammation. This may reduce systemic effects of gut-based inflammation worsened by FUT2 issues.
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Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL)
Unlike regular licorice root, DGL has the glycyrrhizin compound removed to avoid potential side effects. It retains gut-soothing potential without effects on blood pressure or potassium levels.
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Peppermint Oil
Menthol and other bioactive components in peppermint oil have antispasmodic effects on gut smooth muscle. This can help relieve intestinal cramping or irritation linked to inflammation and infection risk in NON-secretors.
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