Human gut metagenomes encode diverse GH156 sialidases

Abstract The intestinal lining is protected by a mucous barrier composed predominantly of complex carbohydrates. Gut microbes employ an array of glycoside hydrolases (GHs) to liberate mucosal sugars as a nutrient source to facilitate host colonization. Intensive catabolism of mucosal glycans, however, may contribute to barrier erosion, pathogen encroachment and inflammation. Sialic acid is an acidic sugar featured at terminal positions of host …