Gut microbiota composition and host genetics may play a significant role in asthma development among U.S. Hispanic/Latino adults, independent of obesity. That’s according to the recent study, “Relationships Among Host Genetics, Gut Microbiota and Asthma in U.S. Hispanic/Latino Adults,” published in Nature Communications.
Researchers analyzed data from more than 2,400 participants in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos, which combined whole-genome sequencing with stool metagenomic profiles to uncover new insights into asthma pathophysiology.
The study found that individuals with asthma exhibited distinct gut microbial signatures compared to nonasthmatics, with notable reductions in beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Enterococcus species. These taxa are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, and their depletion could contribute to airway inflammation. Although obesity was linked to lower overall gut diversity, asthma itself was not associated with diversity metrics, suggesting unique microbial pathways in disease development.
Incorporating microbiota data improved the accuracy of asthma prediction models beyond traditional risk factors and polygenic risk scores (PRS). The research also identified differences between childhood-onset and adult-onset asthma, with adult-onset cases showing enrichment of certain taxa like Prevotella. However, Mendelian randomization analyses did not confirm causal links, underscoring the need for further investigation.
According to researchers, their findings highlight the potential of microbiome-based approaches to enhance asthma risk assessment and guide personalized treatment strategies.
Given the high prevalence of asthma and obesity in Hispanic/Latino populations —particularly among Puerto Ricans — the study’s authors noted the importance of exploring microbiome and genetic interactions in diverse communities. Future work may focus on probiotic interventions targeting beneficial species such as Lactobacillus reuteri, which has shown promise in reducing airway inflammation, they suggested.
The study was conducted under the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute’s (NHLBI) Trans-Omics for Precision Medicine (TOPMed) program and was approved by institutional review boards at participating centers.
