Microbiome–Host Interactions under Hyperglycemic Stress: Evidence from Drosophila melanogaster

Abstract

This paper examines the interaction between microbiomes and hosts in hyperglycemic stress with the model organism Drosophila melanogaster. To determine the effects of hyperglycemia on the gut microbiota composition, immune response, metabolic activity, and physiological performance, flies were put under control and high-sugar diets. The results indicate that diets high in sugar levels have a large disruptive effect on microbial balance, reducing beneficial commensal bacteria and promoting opportunistic taxa, which results in dysbiosis. This imbalance is linked to an augmented oxidative pressure, a modified expression of immune genes, a decreased absorption of nutrients, and a reduced energy expenditure on growth and reproduction. These effects are further exacerbated by the factors of age and diet and indicate the combined effect of age and diet on the stability of the microbiome and host health. The paper highlights the crucial nature of gut microbiota to mediate the physiological effects of hyperglycemic stress, which can offer important insights into the relationship between host and microbe and the implications of this relationship to metabolic regulation.