Gut microbiota therapy in gastrointestinal diseases

Abstract

The human gut microbiota, consisting of trillions of microorganisms, plays a crucial role in gastrointestinal (GI) health and disease. Dysbiosis, an imbalance in microbial composition, has been linked to a range of GI disorders, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), celiac disease, and colorectal cancer. These conditions are influenced by the interactions between the gut microbiota, the host immune system, and the gut-brain axis. Recent research has highlighted the potential for microbiome-based therapeutic strategies, such as probiotics, prebiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), and dietary modifications, to restore microbial balance and alleviate disease symptoms. This review examines the role of gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of common gastrointestinal diseases and explores emerging therapeutic approaches aimed at modulating the microbiome. We discuss the scientific foundations of these interventions, their clinical effectiveness, and the challenges in their implementation. The review underscores the therapeutic potential of microbiome-targeted treatments as a novel approach to managing GI disorders, offering personalized and alternative options to conventional therapies. As research in this field continues to evolve, microbiome-based interventions hold promise for improving the treatment and prevention of gastrointestinal diseases.

Keywords: cancer; dysbiosis; gastrointestinal diseases; gut microbiota; therapy.

FIGURE 1

Gut microbiota dysbiosis and associated disease.

FIGURE 2

Strategies to modify the gut microbiota for disease treatment include incorporating dairy products fortified with probiotic strains, such as yogurt, milk, and cheese, which are well-known for promoting digestive health and may also support mental wellbeing. Probiotics are available in various forms, including powders and microencapsulated options, to enhance their effectiveness. To increase the availability of probiotics and bioactive compounds, probiotic-enriched fruits, vegetables, and beverages have been developed. These probiotic-infused foods not only help maintain gut homeostasis but also influence brain function.