Rapidly evolving sequencing technologies have enabled efficient sequencing of complex genomes and metagenomes. Here, we have presented our metagenomic analysis of rat faeces isolated DNA, sequenced using long-read sequencing technology. The microbiome changes in the rat faeces after sixteen weeks of prolonged administration of subcutaneous 1,2 dimethylhydrazine to induce colon carcinogenesis and oral carotenoid-rich whole-cell lyophilised Dunaliella salina supplement. The faecal pellets were aseptically collected, and DNA was isolated and sequenced subsequently. The post-sequencing analysis revealed that the rat gut microbiome is highly complex and diverse. There was a significant difference between the microbiome of rats that received Dunaliella salina supplement in comparison with rats treated with 1,2 dimethylhydrazine and control rats. We observed the dominance of Bacteroidetes over Firmicutes in both cases of administration. The dominance was notably contributed by individuals like B. vulgatus, B. dorei, B. fragilis, P. ruminicola, and P. copri. The presence of protozoans like Trypanosoma, Trichomonas, and Leishmania was also identified among other commensal eukaryotes. Moreover, there was an abundant presence of bacteriophages targeting probiotic organisms like Lactobacillus among the identified DNA viruses.
Keywords: Carotenoid; Colon cancer; Dunaliella salina; Gut dysbiosis; Metagenomics; Rat faeces.
© Association of Microbiologists of India 2020.