Modelling the interplay between the gut microbiota and its host : application to the analysis of diet impact on symbiosis

The health and well-being of a host are deeply influenced by the interactions with its gut microbiota. Diet, especially the amount of fiber intake, plays a pivotal role in modulating these interactions impacting microbiota composition and functionality. This paper introduces a novel mathematical model, designed to delve into these interactions, by integrating dynamics of the colonic epithelial crypt, bacterial metabolic functions and sensitivity to inflammation as well as colon flows in a transverse colon section. Unique features of our model include accounting for metabolic shifts in epithelial cells based on butyrate and hydrogen sulfide concentrations, representing the effect of innate immune pattern recognition receptors activation in epithelial cells, capturing bacterial oxygen tolerance based on data analysis, and considering the effect of antimicrobial peptides on the microbiota. Using our model, we show a proof-of-concept that a high-protein, low-fiber diet intensifies dysbiosis and compromises symbiotic resilience. Our simulation results highlight the critical role of adequate butyrate concentrations in maintaining mature epithelial crypts. Through differential simulations focused on varying fiber and protein inputs, our study offers insights into the system's resilience following the onset of dysbiosis. Despite areas for potential improvement, the present model, while having room for enhancement, offers essential understanding of elements such as oxygen levels, the breakdown of fiber and protein, and the basic mechanisms of innate immunity within the colon environment