What Is the Microbiota and What Is Its Role in Colic?

The research article discusses the role of the horse’s fecal microbiome, specific bacterial species and their associations with gastrointestinal diseases like colic and colitis. Major findings indicate a decrease in the diversity of the microbiome and shifts in bacterial communities during these diseases.

The Microbiota and its Function

• The gastrointestinal tract of a horse is home to a diverse community of microorganisms commonly known as the microbiota. This includes bacteria, viruses, fungi and other microscopic inhabitants.
• The composition of this community plays a critical role in the overall health of the horse. The microbiota aids in the digestion of food, specifically by breaking down fibers that the horse itself cannot digest, and converting it into energy.
• The default composition of a healthy horse’s microbiota consist of mainly three bacterial phyla – Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, and Verrucromicrobia.

The Microbiota and Diseases

• However, this research highlights that the health and diversity of the microbiota is significantly affected during a gastrointestinal disease such as colic or colitis. These conditions result in a decreased diversity and an altered composition of the bacterial community within the microbiota.
• Colic is a condition that leads to severe abdominal discomfort in horses. On the other hand, colitis is an inflammation of the colon. Both these conditions, as the research suggests, lead to changes in the usual bacterial community composition.
• The study suggests the microbiota and the balance within its microbial community is essential for maintaining equine health, any disruption or imbalance can possibly result in disease.

Conclusion

• Over the course of this study, a better understanding of the link between microbiota and gastrointestinal diseases has been gained. This information can be utilized towards formulating preventive measures and optimizing the treatment for conditions like colic and colitis, ultimately improving the healthcare strategies for horses.