Original story from the University of East Anglia (UK). Immune genes have been found to help shape the gut microbiome in wild animals, potentially benefitting health and survival. Scientists at the University of East Anglia (UK) have uncovered a hidden link between gut health and the immune system – all thanks to a tiny island bird. Researchers studied the Seychelles warbler, a small songbird found on Cousin Island in the Seychelles. They collected the birds’ poo to analyze their gut bacteria – and found that their immune genes influence which gut microbes thrive. They say their work sheds light on how animal immune systems and communities of beneficial gut bacteria evolve together, including in humans. Senior researcher David Richardson explained: “In simple terms, an animal’s immune system may help determine which microbes can live in its gut, while those microbes in turn help support and train the individuals immune system.” A natural laboratory in the Indian Ocean “Cousin Island is small, isolated, and the warblers never leave it,” shared Richardson. That means every bird on the island can be individually marked and followed throughout its life. “This offers scientists an exceptional opportunity to study life-long biological processes in the wild.” All of the island’s warblers are fitted with colored leg rings, allowing researchers to track their behavior, health and genetics over many years. This creates conditions similar to a laboratory population but in a completely natural setting. “It gives us the best of both worlds,” commented Richardson. “We can study…
