Gut microbiome and intestinal mucosal ecosystem

The gut microbiome and intestinal mucosal ecosystem represent a complex, symbiotic network consisting of trillions of microorganisms and the host's intestinal lining. This ecosystem serves as a critical biological interface that regulates nutrient metabolism, synthesizes essential vitamins, and orchestrates the development and function of the host immune system (Thursby & Juge, 2017). The mucosal barrier, composed of epithelial cells and a protective mucus layer, prevents the systemic translocation of luminal contents while facilitating cross-talk between microbes and immune cells (Vancamelbeke & Vermeire, 2017). Dysbiosis, or the imbalance of this ecosystem, is strongly associated with various pathologies, including inflammatory bowel disease, metabolic syndrome, and susceptibility to enteric infections like Clostridioides difficile (Lynch & Pedersen, 2016). Therapeutic interventions such as probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) aim to restore ecological balance and barrier function (Fan & Pedersen, 2021). While not a single molecular target, this system is increasingly recognized as a "virtual organ" that can be modulated to achieve systemic therapeutic effects.

Other names

Gut microbiotaIntestinal floraGastrointestinal ecosystemGut-mucosal barrierIntestinal microbiome

Modulation of microbial composition, restoration of commensal diversity, enhancement of mucosal barrier integrity, and production of metabolic byproducts like short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs).