Why does irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affect women and men differently, and what role might the gut microbiome play? In this interview, UCLA’s Lisa Chang explores differences in bowel habits, intestinal transit and pain, discussing how these factors relate to microbial composition and function. 

She also introduces the estrobolome—the collection of microbial genes involved in estrogen metabolism—and explains how bacterial enzymes can influence estrogen reabsorption and potentially systemic hormone levels. From menstrual cycle-related symptoms to menopause, this emerging research raises the possibility of targeting microbial hormone metabolism through diet or microbiome-directed interventions. 

While its clinical applications remain to be established, the estrobolome offers a promising avenue for investigating the connections between gut microbes, sex hormones and symptoms.