Real-Time Analysis of Gas Metabolites of Gut Microbiota in Rats Using Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectrometry

The paper presents the results of a pilot application of a system for continuous real-time monitoring of gas metabolites of the intestinal microbiota based on tunable diode laser spectrometry in combination with selective hydrogen and oxygen sensors in rats. Experiments were carried out to record the overall formation of metabolites under normal conditions and after carbohydrate load tests, as well as to monitor hydrogen and methane concentrations in exhaled air only and to assess the respiratory quotient. The results demonstrate the technical feasibility of using the system to study the patterns in gas metabolite dynamics to evaluate the functional activity of the intestinal microbiota.