Influence of antibiotics on some intestinal microflora associated characteristics

Intestinal functions related to the presence of microbes in host organisms are normally heavily influenced by administration of antimicrobial drugs. We have investigated the effect of several antibiotics in man and rat, on some MACs (Microflora Associated Characteristics). A MAC is defined as the recording of any anatomical structure, biochemical or physiological function in the host organism which is influenced by microflora. When functional, active microbes are absent as in germfree animals, healthy newborns, or in relation to antimicrobial therapies, a MAC defined as a GAC (Germfree Animal Characteristic). Faecal samples have been collected prior to, during and up to several weeks after the antimicrobial administration in order to investigate different MAC/GAC patterns. Microbial conversion of cholesterol to coprostanol, bilirubin to urobilinogen and 7-alpha-dehydroxylation of cholic acid have been investigated to evaluate hepatic/intestinal co-functions, and degradation of intestinal mucin in order to evaluate the integrity in the intestinal mucosa. Furthermore, degradation of the dietary derived beta-aspartylglycine, the level of faecal trypsin and production of short chain fatty acids were investigated to evaluate dietary/intestinal co-functions. It is concluded that each antimicrobial drug creates its own profile, both with regard to duration and function.