Impact of YAQ001 on the Gut Microbiome, Permeability and Markers of Systemic Inflammation in Patients With Cirrhosis

Background & aims: YAQ001 is a novel, non-absorbable, gut-restricted, multiporous, carbon bead adsorbent. Pre-clinical studies and a clinical trial suggested its therapeutic potential and safety in patients with cirrhosis. This substudy aimed to explore the effects of YAQ001 on the gut microbiome and their exploratory association with biomarkers of gut permeability and systemic inflammation.

Methods

Twenty-eight-patients with cirrhosis were randomized (double-blind) to receive YAQ001 (4 g once daily) or placebo. Gut microbiome and biomarkers of inflammation and gut permeability were assessed at baseline, after 4 and 12 weeks. Changes in biomarkers and relationship with microbiome composition and gene profiling were assessed. The effect of YAQ001 on Klebsiella pneumoniae biofilms was assessed in vitro.