A mouse’s metabolism may follow circadian rhythms set by gut bacteria

The microbes control when fat gets absorbed from food, a study finds

mouse and clock

Bacteria in the small intestine of mice may set the clock on the animals’ metabolic rhythms.

Mouse: GlobalP/iStock/Getty Images Plus; Watch: alikemalkarasu/E+/Getty Images

Mice (and maybe people) may metabolize food according to daily, circadian rhythms set by gut bacteria.