Emegring marker Guide

GABA consuming microbes

Neuro / Gut-brain
Research Use Only
GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) plays an important role in regulating mental state by calming the nervous system. Low levels of GABA have been associated with poor mental health. Most GABA is produced in the brain however, the gut microbiome may contribute to GABA levels as some bacteria can also produce and/or consume GABA. The role of gut bacteria that consume GABA in mental health is currently not well understood. If you are concerned about your mental health, it is important to seek professional help.
Marker summary
GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a neurotransmitter, is proposed to play a role in gut motility and gut-brain communication. While mostly produced in the brain, the role of microbial GABA consumption is unclear.

What are emerging markers?

The emerging markers provides microbial markers which have historically been of clinical interest. These markershave an emerging evidence base leading to uncertainty around their role in human health.All emerging markers are tagged Research Use Only. These markers have an emerging evidence base leading to uncertainty around their role in human health.

1

Ammonia (urease) producing microbes

Metabolic

Research Use Only

The microbial enzyme urease breaks down the compound urea, a nitrogen waste product created by the body, into ammonia. The role of gut bacteria that produce the enzyme urease is currently not well understood.

Marker summary

The enzyme urease breaks down urea into ammonia. The role of microbial urease remains unclear.

1

Ammonia (urease) producing microbes

Metabolic

Research Use Only

The microbial enzyme urease breaks down the compound urea, a nitrogen waste product created by the body, into ammonia. The role of gut bacteria that produce the enzyme urease is currently not well understood.

Marker summary

The enzyme urease breaks down urea into ammonia. The role of microbial urease remains unclear.