Little things indeed make big things happen, and this is proven by the tiny world of bacteria present in our gut. Bacteria play an important role in immunological defense, maintaining the intestinal barrier, nutritional and xenobiotic metabolism, among other things. Due to their vital role, any disruption in the bacterial community structure could have detrimental health consequences. Pesticides have long been a popular tool for eradicating pests and safeguarding our food supply. However, pesticide residues that are present in food and water can disrupt gut bacterial communities.
This image depicts the gut bacteria that are present in the gut, as well as how pesticide residues in diet might disturb their community structure. My research seeks to understand the effects of pesticides on gut bacteria and their functions, as well as the implications of these effects on human and animal health. In the end, these findings will contribute to the steps needed to mitigate these exposures and their consequences.