Parkia biglobosa supplementation alters gut microbiota composition and diversity in mice: A metagenomic and histological analysis

This study investigated the effects of dietary Parkia biglobosa (African locust bean) supplementation on gut microbial diversity, composition, and host histology in mice. Mice were divided into a control group and four groups receiving a modified diet supplemented with different food condiments: Iru and three distinct chemical seasonings, designated as A, B, and C (70 sample: 30 animal feed, twice daily). High-throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA genes revealed significant alterations in gut bacterial community structure with P. biglobosa supplementation. Specifically, the most abundant phyla in P. biglobosa samples were Firmicutes (31.38%), Bacteroidota (12.82%), Campilobacterota (23.36%), Spirochaetota (7.54%), Desulfobacterota (23.85%), Deferribacterota (10.90%), and Proteobacteria (20.16%). Notably, Parkia biglobosa fermentation uniquely alters the gut microbiome in mice, increasing Campilobacterota, Spirochaetota, Desulfobacterota, and Deferribacterota, unlike typical fermented foods favoring Firmicutes and Bacteroidota. This suggests novel metabolic pathways and health impacts. No adverse effects were observed in key organs. The microbiome shift hints at increased short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, potentially improving gut barrier function. These findings position P. biglobosa as a promising and novel gut health modulator, warranting further research into its unique mechanisms and benefits compared to existing probiotics and fermented foods.