What is Methanobacteriaceae (family)? High and low values | Lab results explained

Family of bacteria-like microbes that produce methane.

Methanobacteriaceae are methane-producing, bacteria-like microbes that play an important role in the gut ecosystem by facilitating carbohydrate fermentation and production of short-chain fatty acids by commensal bacteria. [L]

Facilitates carbohydrate fermentation and short-chain fatty acid production by beneficial bacteria.

High levels linked to chronic constipation, as well as some types of SIBO and IBS. Low levels may indicate reduced production of short-chain fatty acids and may be associated with inflammation.

References:

Chaudhary PP, Conway PL, Schlundt J. Methanogens in humans: potentially beneficial or harmful for health. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol. 2018;102(7):3095-3104 [L] 246

Ghoshal U, et al. Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Particularly the Constipation-Predominant Form, Involves an Increase in Methanobrevibacter smithii , Which Is Associated with Higher Methane Production. Gut Liver. 2016;10(6):932- 938 [L] 247

Ghavami SB, et al. Alterations of the human gut Methanobrevibacter smithii as a biomarker for inflammatory bowel diseases. Microb Pathog. 2018;117:285-289 [L] 248

WHAT DOES IT MEAN IF YOUR METHANOBACTERIACEAE (FAMILY) RESULT IS TOO LOW?

Reduced levels have been found in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

Low levels may indicate reduced production of short-chain fatty acids and may be associated with inflammation.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN IF YOUR METHANOBACTERIACEAE (FAMILY) RESULT IS TOO HIGH?

Elevated levels of Methanobacteriaceae, have been linked to chronic constipation, irritable bowel syndrome and obesity. [L], [L], [L]

Disclaimer:

Test results may vary depending on your age, gender, health history, the method used for the test, and other things. Your test results may not mean you have a problem. Ask your healthcare provider what your test results mean for you. 

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