A common gut microbe produces a molecule that can cut cholesterol, the article reports.

U.S. researchers linked an odd-chain fatty acid to lower atherosclerosis in mice.

The metabolite appears to slow arterial plaque buildup in preclinical models.

Intestinal inflammation can also affect the heart through immune-cell signaling.

Certain gut bacteria correlate with better outcomes in heart failure patients.

Bifidobacterium populations are emerging as useful markers of cardiac recovery.

Scientists hope microbiome therapies could one day complement standard cardiology drugs.

Human trials and safety reviews are still required before clinical use.

Read the full article for more details on the gut microbe heart finding.