Bugs4Urate - Precision Nutrition Strategies for Investigating Probiotic, Diet, Glycan, and Microbiome Factors in Hyperuricemia and Gout Prevention

Introduction

Gout is a prevalent lifestyle-related non-communicable disease (NCD) on the rise in Europe, causing low quality of life, yet with inefficient means for treatment. An effective approach to manage hyperuricemia, the precursor to gout, would significantly enhance health outcomes and have a profound impact.

Project Overview

Using a novel probiotic food ingredient with urate-lowering properties, we target the gut microbiome to eradicate urate in a precision nutrition framework. This framework contextualizes factors of the habitual diet, host gut microbiome, and host genetics to establish a responder/non-responder instrument.

Methodology

We will employ a diverse array of methods, including:

1. Machine learning applied to existing clinical and omics observational data.
2. Ex-vivo dietary fiber and probiotic refinement.
3. Two human intervention studies.

Mode-of-Action Study

In healthy adults (n = 8), we will conduct a mode-of-action study utilizing a crossover design, including small intestine biopsy sampling to assess local activity.

Proof-of-Concept Study

In hyperuricemic participants (n = 99), we will conduct a three-armed, placebo-controlled proof-of-concept study to assess the efficacy of probiotic treatment (with and without fiber), combined with a responder/non-responder instrument.

Comprehensive Analyses

Using comprehensive longitudinal analyses in metabolomics, microbiome, transcriptomics, and glycomics, we aim to uncover the molecular dynamics between:

• Dietary patterns
• Established bacterial enzymatic processes
• Urate breakdown
• Resultant shifts in inflammation within the gut and throughout the circulatory system

Innovation in Glycomics Technology

By innovating the glycomics technology to accommodate alternative bio-specimens, we hope to enable straightforward home sampling and initiate early diagnostic procedures for broad population oversight.

Conclusion

Through the application of multi-omics, we aim to develop an effective responder/non-responder instrument for probiotic intervention focused on serum urate reduction, inflammation control, and gout prevention.