Kosin Med J.  2023 Jun;38(2):98-106. 10.7180/kmj.23.115.

Revolutionizing gut health: exploring the role of gut microbiota and the potential of microbiome-based therapies in lower gastrointestinal diseases

Affiliations
  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, Inje University Haeundae Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
  • 2Department of Internal Medicine, Kosin University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea

Abstract

The gut microbiota comprises a collection of microorganisms residing in the human digestive system, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. These microbes have critical roles in food breakdown, immune system regulation, and the production of essential nutrients. Several lower gastrointestinal (GI) diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and colorectal cancer, have been associated with dysbiosis, which refers to an imbalance in the gut microbiota. Additionally, the gut microbiome and its microbial compounds affect disease development and the host’s immune response. Alterations in the gut-brain axis microbiome are also implicated in lower GI diseases. Therefore, microbiome-based therapies that regulate the gut microbiota (e.g., fecal microbiota transplantation and probiotics) are essential for the prevention and treatment of these diseases. This review aims to highlight the significance of gut microbiota and microbiome-based therapies in managing lower GI diseases.

Keyword

Fecal microbiota transplantation; Gastrointestinal diseases; Gut microbiome; Probiotics

Reference

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