Phages in Fecal Transplants Are Secretly Reshaping Your Gut Microbiome
Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is best known for transferring beneficial bacteria, but a new perspective from University College Cork researchers argues that viruses — specifically bacteriophages — may be equally important players. These phages don't just hitchhike along with donor bacteria; they can actively transfer genes between microbes, including genes for metabolism, stress responses, and antibiotic resistance. This process, called horizontal gene transfer, could help explain why FMT outcomes vary so widely between patients. The authors propose a new model in which phages act as bidirectional mediators, shaping the gut ecosystem in ways that go far beyond simple bacterial engraftment. Understanding the virome's role could be key to making FMT safer and more effective.