Gut-organ axis: a microbial outreach and networking.

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Human Physiology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• The human gut microbiota (GM) comprises a complex microbial ecosystem essential for host well-being.
• GM plays a critical role in maintaining body homeostasis through intestinal and extra-intestinal effects.
• Dysbiosis in GM composition is linked to various gut disorders and systemic diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the bidirectional relationship between the gut microbiota and vital human organs.
• To explore the communication axes (neural, endocrine, immune, metabolic) linking the gut and other organs.
• To revisit disease symptoms and redefine the gut-organ communication network.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on the gut microbiota's role in human health and disease.
• Analysis of existing research on inter-organ communication pathways influenced by GM.
• Synthesis of information on how GM alterations contribute to disease pathogenesis.

Main Results:

• The GM is increasingly recognized as a 'vital organ' due to its extensive interactions with host physiology.
• Alterations in GM structure are associated with numerous diseases, highlighting a gut-organ axis.
• Complex neural, endocrine, immune, and metabolic pathways mediate gut-organ communication.

Conclusions:

• The gut microbiota is integral to overall health, influencing multiple organs.
• Understanding the gut-organ communication network is crucial for defining disease mechanisms.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate the precise interaction mechanisms between gut microbes and associated organs.