By sequencing the genes of bacteria living in the human intestinal tract, researchers believe they have found two particular varieties whose presence or absence may be associated with a serious liver condition.

A study published in the journal Gastroenterology determined that people with fatty liver disease display unusual levels of two species of gut flora. Specifically, they have higher than normal levels of Gammaproteobacteria and low levels of Erysiptoltrichi.

Fatty liver disease may be caused by a number of agents, from alcoholism to obesity. A liver that accumulates excess fat is at risk for inflammation and decreased organ function.

While the study’s authors are unsure what effect these two bacterial strains have on the liver itself, they found that there was a strong correlation between high counts of Gammaproteobacteria, low counts of Erysiptoltrichi and the presence of excess fat in the liver.

The team theorized that these flora may affect the body’s levels of choline, a form of vitamin B that must be ingested since the body does not synthesize it.

Future research may address how probiotic treatments can alter the balance of bacteria in the gut. Scientists say the results of such a study would have a number of applications for digestive health.