Age Related Alterations in Metabolome and Microbiome in Giant Pandas

It is very important to carry out metabolomics and gut microbiome research of captive giant pandas at different age stages for understanding the physiological development characteristics and dietary change patterns, accordingly making targeted breeding and management strategies for giant pandas. In this study, the fecal samples of 44 captive giant pandas were divided into four age groups: Cub (<2 years), Young (3-7 years), Adult (11-18 years), and Old (>20 years). Metabolomics, 16S rRNA sequencing, and metagenomic sequencing were performed to construct the fecal metabolomics profile of giant pandas at different age stages, aiming to identify potential biomarkers and gut microbiota related to the growth and development of giant pandas and reveal their interactions. Giant pandas; Metabolomics;16S rRNA; Metagenomics; Age