In vitro study of arsenolipid's effect on the human gut microbial ecosystem

Arsenolipids are organical forms of arsenic with variable toxicity. The interplay between asenolipids and the human gut microbiota is needed to accurately assess the risk derived from arsenic-rich seafood intake, however, the potential effect of arsenolipids on human gut microbiota is poorly characterized.This research used the in vitro mucosal simulator of the human intestinal microbial ecosystem (M-SHIME) to study the effect of defined chemical standards of arsenolipids (AsFA 362 and AsHC 332) on healthy human gut microbiota (n=4). Microbial-derived metabolites were quantified by gas chromatography and microbiota structure was characterized by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Specific reduction of butyrate production and donor-specific structural changes in microbial communities were observed after arsenolipid treatments, suggesting a potential detrimental effect of arsenolipids intake on key beneficial gut commensal microorganisms. Hence, the difference of the microbiota composition among individuals is an important factor when considering the health risks of seafood consumption.