A recent study has revealed that viruses from the Microviridae family, present in the gut microbiota, may be associated with food addiction and obesity.

Microviridae and Its Influence on Eating Behaviors

The research indicates that a higher presence of Microviridae in the gut is associated with elevated levels of tryptophan and tyrosine in the bloodstream. These amino acids are precursors of the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine, which play essential roles in mood regulation, pleasure, and the brain's reward system. Alterations in these neurotransmitters may influence addictive behaviors related to food consumption.

Animal Model Studies

To further explore this relationship, experiments were conducted by transferring microbiota from individuals with a high presence of Microviridae to mice. The results showed that these animals exhibited typical behaviors of food addiction, such as increased motivation and compulsivity towards food intake, along with alterations in serotonin and dopamine metabolism in the brain.

Anthranilic Acid: A Potential Protective Factor

The study also identified that lower levels of anthranilic acid, a metabolite of tryptophan, were associated with a higher presence of Microviridae and addictive food behaviors. Administering anthranilic acid to animal models reduced these behaviors, suggesting a potential protective effect against food addiction.

Implications for the Treatment of Obesity and Food Addiction

These findings underscore the importance of considering not only bacteria but also viruses present in the gut microbiota when investigating eating and metabolic disorders. The composition of the gut virome is specific and stable for each individual, which could facilitate the development of personalized strategies to address food addiction and obesity through microbiota modulation.

Conclusion

The identification of Microviridae's influence on food addiction and obesity opens new pathways for understanding and addressing these disorders. Future studies could focus on developing interventions based on gut virome modulation, offering innovative alternatives for treating obesity and addictive eating behaviors.