Non-targeted metabolomics reveals metabolic signatures associated with Clostridioides difficile virulence

This study systematically characterized the metabolomic profiles of <i>C. difficile</i> strains of different ST types, revealing that their enhanced virulence is closely associated with the reprograming of energy metabolism, membrane lipid structural remodeling, and bile acid metabolism. Metabolic differences suggest that highly virulent strains may enhance fermentation and lipid synthesis pathways to gain stronger survival and infection capabilities. The 13 candidate metabolites identified hold promise as potential biomarkers for distinguishing strain virulence levels, providing new theoretical basis for subsequent targeted metabolic regulation and anti-<i>C. difficile</i> therapies.