Experts say our genes, not just our diet, can drive gut health and help protect people from diabetes.

Sydney-based researchers at the Charles Perkins Centre have identified a genetic component influencing the composition of the gut microbiome and its subsequent impact on metabolic health. 

While dietary factors are acknowledged to play a significant role in gut health, the research suggests that genetics also contribute significantly.

The study focuses on alpha-defensins, small proteins or peptides produced by genes, with varying levels observed between individuals. 

“The microbiome is like a garden, it contains beautiful plants but it also contains weeds,” Professor David James from the Charles Perkins Centre said. 

“The beautiful plants contribute to good health, and the weeds bad health. 

“These peptides are the pruners of the garden.”

Experiments conducted on mice demonstrated that these peptides selectively target specific bacteria within the gut.

“What we found was that feeding these peptides to mice improved their metabolic health, they were protected against the effects of an unhealthy diet, and we think it’s really exciting,” researcher Dr Stewart Masson said.

Researchers would now like to see how human health and diseases such as diabetes are influenced by measuring the peptides in people, so low levels can be boosted.