Gastrointestinal Health Marker Guide

Human DNA

Research Use Only
Human DNA in stool reflects the proportion of DNA in the sample originating from the host rather than from microbes.
Marker summary
Most faecal DNA is microbial. Human DNA sources include shed intestinal cells, mucus, blood or other human material. Higher levels may reflect intestinal inflammation or bleeding, but can also arise from local anorectal bleeding, such as haemorrhoids or anal fissures, or from human material introduced during sample collection, including cells from perianal skin, urine or menstrual blood.

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.