The Microbiota-Human Health Axis

Abstract

Trillions of microorganisms play a pivotal role in maintaining health and preventing disease in humans. Their presence influences daily life, habits, energy levels, and pathologies. The present narrative review synthesized recent studies of microbial diversity across organ systems. The composition of the microbiota regulates the intestinal barrier, modulates the immune response, influences metabolism, and produces essential compounds such as short-chain fatty acids and neurotransmitters. Dysbiosis is associated with numerous pathologies, including metabolic, autoimmune, neurodegenerative, and cardiovascular diseases. The microbiota is key to maintaining physiological balance and reducing disease risk. Therapeutic interventions, such as probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics, and microbiome transplantation, offer promising perspectives in restoring microbial homeostasis and preventing chronic diseases.

Keywords: dysbiosis; microbiome transplantation; microbiota; probiotics.

Figure 1

The role of SCFA in systemic health. SCFA—short-chain fatty acids; NF-κB—Nuclear Factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells.

Figure 2

The gut–brain axis. HPA—hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal; gamma-aminobutyric acid—GABA.