A study from Spain reveals that Bisphenol A exposure impacts the gut microbiome of children differently, with normal-weight children showing greater bacterial diversity compared to those who are overweight or obese. This research underscores the importance of understanding BPA’s role in childhood obesity and the potential for future health interventions.), a synthetic chemical, is extensively utilized in creating long-lasting plastic items such as glasses, water bottles, and epoxy resins.
the researchers found more unique bacteria taxa in children of normal weight than in overweight or obese children. Previous studies have investigated symptoms and effects associated with BPA exposure. Others have used mouse models and 16S rRNA gene sequencing, which can reveal microbes in complex mixtures of materials, like those from the gut or water. For the new study, the researchers, including Ana López-Moreno, Ph.D.
Knowing which microbes participate in the complex network connecting BPA, obesity, and the gut microbiome, Aguilera said, could point to future interventions and policy changes that may reduce the risk of childhood obesity worldwide. In future work, she said the researchers plan to similarly investigate how exposure to other synthetic chemicals, including parabens and phthalates, may influence the composition of the gut microbiome.