Scientists find hidden populations within common gut bacteria

 Scientists led by the University of Vienna have found hidden populations within common gut bacteria, some of which are linked to ageing, colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease and type 2 diabetes. The study also found evidence that certain bacterial populations can spread between people and across continents within a few decades, suggesting the gut microbiome may be more transmissible and dynamic than previously thought. Scientists led by the University of Vienna have found hidden populations within common gut bacteria, some of which are linked to ageing, colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease and type 2 diabetes. The study also found evidence that certain bacterial populations can spread between people and across continents within a few decades, suggesting the gut microbiome may be more transmissible and dynamic than previously thought.