In the present study, the researchers sought to assess the effects of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use, PPI dose, and duration of use on the microorganism community in the distal esophagus. Using a customized esophageal microbiome qPCR panel array (EMB), mucosal biopsies of the distal esophagus have been analyzed. Patient demographics, use of PPIs, duration of use and dose have been recorded. Participants in the study were 58 patients, mean age was 60.5 years. The lower esophageal microbial composition does not alter PPI usage significantly. The lower esophageal microbiome is also not altered by changes in the dose or duration of PPI use. To determine the level of acidity and its relationship to the microbial community, future studies with larger sample sizes and esophageal pH testing should be performed. Read the full article on BMC Gastroenterology. Source
