Microbiome-skin-brain axis: A novel paradigm for cutaneous wounds

Area of Science:

• Integrative medicine
• Microbiology
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Chronic wounds represent a significant global health burden, impacting patients financially, medically, and psychologically.
• Patients with nonhealing wounds frequently experience comorbidities, exacerbating their disability and mental health challenges.
• High rates of depressive symptoms in chronic wound patients necessitate investigation into shared pathophysiological mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential links between wound healing, inflammation, microbiome alterations, and depression.
• To review current literature on anti-inflammatory and probiotic therapies for chronic wounds and depression.
• To identify research gaps and propose future directions for improved patient care.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature review was conducted using PubMed, focusing on English-language articles.
• Search terms included wound healing, inflammation, microbiome, chronic wounds, depression, anti-inflammatory therapy, and probiotic therapy.
• Studies examining the interplay between these factors and potential therapeutic interventions were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Chronic wound conditions and depression exhibit shared pathological features, including dysregulated inflammation and altered microbial communities.
• Immune-targeted and probiotic therapies show promise in addressing these common pathophysiological pathways.
• Existing research is often limited by small sample sizes, cross-sectional designs, and confounding variables.

Conclusions:

• A potential relationship exists between chronic wound pathophysiology and depression, mediated by inflammation and microbiome dysbiosis.
• Alternative therapies targeting immune pathways and the microbiome offer promising avenues for treatment.
• Further preclinical and large-scale clinical studies are crucial to confirm these findings and guide effective management strategies for chronic wound patients.