Predicting responses to prebiotic fibres: linking microbiota, function and clinical outcomes

The human gut microbiome harbors multiple genes required for the digestion of prebiotics and other fibers, resulting in the production of end products that mediate gastrointestinal and systemic benefits to the host. However, considerable interindividual differences in gut microbial composition have resulted in variable responses to these interventions. An ISAPP discussion group reviewed the reasons for interindividual responses, as well as strategies to predict and optimize responses to prebiotic and dietary fiber interventions. The strategies include targeted approaches based on knowledge of fiber and prebiotic metabolism, metagenomes and machine learning tools, all with the aim of improving the efficacy of prebiotic fibers in humans.

REFERENCE:

Cantu-Jungles T, Kok CR, Armet AM, David LA, Gibbons SM, Lindemann SR, Louis P, Walter J, Hamaker B, Hutkins R. Predicting responses to prebiotic fibres: linking microbiota, function and clinical outcomes. Nat Rev Microbiol. 2026. doi: 10.1038/s41579-026-01383-y.