The Human Microbiome in the Fight Against Tuberculosis

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Immunology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• The human microbiome plays a role in health and disease.
• Mycobacterium tuberculosis causes tuberculosis (TB), a major global infectious disease.
• The microbiome's influence on TB pathogenesis and host response is not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing literature on the association between the human microbiome (gut and lung) and tuberculosis.
• To explore the potential immunomodulatory roles of the microbiome in TB infection and disease.

Main Methods:

• A literature search was conducted using PubMed.
• Eight studies were included: one animal study, one case report, and six case-control studies.
• Data on microbial diversity in the gut and lungs in relation to TB status were analyzed.

Main Results:

• TB infection and disease were associated with reduced gastrointestinal microbial diversity in animal and human case studies.
• Sputum microbial diversity showed differences based on TB status in case-control studies, though findings were heterogeneous.
• Current evidence indicates an association between the gut and lung microbiome and TB.

Conclusions:

• The gut and lung microbiome are associated with tuberculosis infection and disease.
• Further etiological and longitudinal research is necessary to establish clinical relevance.
• The microbiome represents a potential modifiable risk factor for TB.