Storage of equine faecal microbiota transplantation solution has minimal impact on major bacterial communities and structure.

This research investigated the effect of storage on horse fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) solutions, finding that there were minimal changes in the microbiota when stored at specific temperatures for a certain period, hence maintaining the health benefits of the FMT.

Study Design and Methodology

• The study employed an in vitro non-randomised controlled experiment design.
• Fecal matter was sourced from five healthy adult horses, and was used to prepare fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) solutions.
• From each FMT solution, seven different samples were collected. DNA was extracted from these samples at different storage conditions: immediately after preparation, after storage at 4 degrees Celsius for 24, 48 or 72 hours, and following storage at -20 degrees Celsius for 7, 14 or 28 days.

DNA Analysis and Microbiota Profiling

• The DNA of these samples was sequenced using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, a technique known to provide detailed insights into the bacterial species present.
• The researchers then investigated the relative abundance, alpha diversity, and beta diversity between the fresh feces and the FMT solutions taken immediately after preparation. Alpha and beta diversities are statistical measures used to investigate the diversity of species within and between ecological communities, respectively.

Results

• The study found no significant differences between fresh feces and the 0hr FMT samples regarding microbiota composition and diversity.
• FMT solution stored at 4 degrees Celsius for up to 72 hours and -20 degrees Celsius for up to 28 days showed minimal changes in the microbiota.

Conclusion and Implications

• The researchers concluded that the preparation process of equine FMT solution results in minimal changes in the microbiota compared with fresh feces.
• FMT solutions can be stored at 4 degrees Celsius for up to three days and at -20 degrees Celsius for up to 28 days without causing a major change in the microbiota.
• The findings have implications for the management and treatment of dysbiosis in horses, supporting the viability and effectiveness of stored FMT solutions.