When we think about the gastrointestinal tract we often think about the various bacteria or “bugs” that are present. We tend to categorize them as good bugs or bad bugs. However, the gut microbiome is much more complex than this. Previously used technology, such as 16s gene sequencing, aimed to identify the types and numbers of microorganisms present. It allowed researchers to understand that gut microorganism composition varies greatly between animals, within the same species, age, and environment. As an animal matures and its gut develops there is a resulting change in their gut microbiome. New and improved technology allows us to take a deeper look into the micobiome, specifically looking at the metagenome (all the genes across the microorganisms). This information is more powerful than microbial profiling as it gives superior information about the microbiome such as, metabolic pathways and metabolites, and how these might affect the bird’s health, performance, growth, and livability. 

For example, nitrogen utilization pathways control the utilization of peptides that can be absorbed and utilized by the animal. Production of these metabolites can result in excessive ammonia, biogenic amines, and other nitrogenous toxins that cause inflammation, decrease barrier function, and have a negative impact on the environment and animal welfare. If we can understand this pathway and how we might effect the metabolites produced, we can improve the animals status and positively impact the environment.