A study published in Nature (2011) reveals that gut flora metabolism of dietary phosphatidylcholine (PC) promotes cardiovascular disease (CVD). The research identifies three metabolites—choline, trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), and betaine—as key factors in CVD risk. These metabolites are produced by gut bacteria and influence atherosclerosis through macrophage scavenger receptors. Dietary supplementation with choline or TMAO increases atherosclerosis in mice, while gut flora suppression reduces it. Genetic studies show that flavin monooxygenases (FMOs), enzymes involved in TMAO production, are linked to atherosclerosis. The study highlights the role of gut microbiota in converting dietary PC into TMAO, which contributes to atherosclerosis. The findings suggest that targeting gut flora could offer new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for atherosclerotic heart disease. The research also shows that TMAO levels are associated with CVD risk in humans, and that genetic variations in FMOs may influence atherosclerosis susceptibility. The study underscores the importance of diet and gut microbiota in CVD pathogenesis.A study published in Nature (2011) reveals that gut flora metabolism of dietary phosphatidylcholine (PC) promotes cardiovascular disease (CVD). The research identifies three metabolites—choline, trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), and betaine—as key factors in CVD risk. These metabolites are produced by gut bacteria and influence atherosclerosis through macrophage scavenger receptors. Dietary supplementation with choline or TMAO increases atherosclerosis in mice, while gut flora suppression reduces it. Genetic studies show that flavin monooxygenases (FMOs), enzymes involved in TMAO production, are linked to atherosclerosis. The study highlights the role of gut microbiota in converting dietary PC into TMAO, which contributes to atherosclerosis. The findings suggest that targeting gut flora could offer new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for atherosclerotic heart disease. The research also shows that TMAO levels are associated with CVD risk in humans, and that genetic variations in FMOs may influence atherosclerosis susceptibility. The study underscores the importance of diet and gut microbiota in CVD pathogenesis.