Gut microbiota, immune pathways, and pathogens

The term "Gut microbiota, immune pathways, and pathogens" describes a complex physiological system rather than a single molecular target. This axis encompasses the interactions between the trillions of commensal microorganisms in the gut, the host's innate and adaptive immune systems, and potential infectious agents (Belkaid & Hand, 2014, Science). The microbiota is essential for the maturation of the immune system and the maintenance of the intestinal epithelial barrier, primarily through the production of metabolites like short-chain fatty acids (Round & Mazmanian, 2009, Nature Reviews Immunology). Disruptions in this ecosystem, known as dysbiosis, are linked to the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease, metabolic disorders, and susceptibility to pathogens like Clostridioides difficile (Pickard et al., 2017, Immunological Reviews). While not a single receptor or enzyme, this system is therapeutically modulated via probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation to restore homeostasis (Khoruts & Sadowsky, 2016, Gastroenterology). Furthermore, the composition of the gut microbiome has emerged as a critical factor in determining the efficacy of systemic therapies, including cancer immunotherapies (Gopalakrishnan et al., 2018, Science).

Other names

Gut-immune axisMicrobiome-immune system interactionHost-microbe-pathogen interface

Modulation of the microbial ecosystem to restore immune homeostasis, strengthen the intestinal barrier, and provide competitive exclusion of pathogens (Khoruts & Sadowsky, 2016, Gastroenterology).