The Role of Gut Microbiome in the Pathogenesis and the Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases

Abstract

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, is a chronic condition characterized by inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Its exact cause is unknown, but it's thought to result from a dysregulated immune response influenced by various factors, including changes in the intestinal microbiota, diet, lifestyle, and genetics. The gut microbiome, consisting of diverse microorganisms, plays a crucial role in maintaining physiological balance, with its disruption leading to inflammatory responses typical of IBD. Treatments primarily aim at symptom control, employing immunomodulators, corticosteroids, and newer approaches like probiotics, prebiotics, fecal transplants, and dietary modifications, all focusing on leveraging the microbiota's potential in disease management. These strategies aim to restore the delicate balance of the gut microbiome, typically altered in IBD, marked by a decrease in beneficial bacteria and an increase in harmful pathogens. This review underscores the importance of the gut microbiome in the pathogenesis and treatment of IBD, highlighting the shift towards personalized medicine and the necessity for further research in understanding the complex interactions between the gut microbiota, immune system, and genetics in IBD. It points to the potential of emerging treatments and the importance of a multifaceted approach in managing this complex and challenging disease.

Keywords: gut microbiome; ibd; immune dysregulation; inflammatory bowel disease; treatment strategies.

Figure 1. Dysbiosis as a main trigger for IBD

1 - Physiological homeostasis. 2 - Disruption of homeostasis leads to a state of "intestinal dysbiosis. 3 - Dysbiosis combined with various factors triggers inflammatory signaling mechanisms. 4 - Leading to inadequate immune responses and the production of cytokines and inflammatory mediators. 5 - The resultant persistent inflammatory environment is a hallmark of IBD [22]. IBD: Inflammatory bowel disease Image Credits: Luis Fernando Ochoa Meza