Deoxycholic acid derived from the gut microbiota involved in the regulation of adaptive thermogenesis in response to dietary protein restriction in plateau pika

Our study reveals an association between the gut microbiota and LP diet-associated regulation of FGF21 signaling and thermogenesis and further demonstrates that this relationship is influenced by interspecies microbial transfer, indicating a critical mechanism whereby horizontal microbial exchange between sympatric species enhances host energy homeostasis. These findings provide novel insights into our understanding of the adaptations of mammals to high-elevation environments. Video Abstract.