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Updated: Oct 18, 2025

Intestinal Epithelial Regeneration in Response to Ionizing Irradiation
Published on: July 27, 2022
The Effects of Ionizing Radiation on Gut Microbiota, a Systematic Review
Ana Fernandes1, Ana Oliveira1, Raquel Soares2,3
1Department of Nuclear Medicine, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, E.P.E., 4200-319 Porto, Portugal.
Background:
The human gut microbiota is defined as the microorganisms that collectively inhabit the intestinal tract. Its composition is relatively stable; however, an imbalance can be precipitated by various factors and is known to be associated with various diseases. Humans are daily exposed to ionizing radiation from ambient and medical procedures, and gastrointestinal side effects are not rare.
Methods:
A systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases was conducted. Primary outcomes were changes in composition, richness, and diversity of the gut microbiota after ionizing radiation exposure. Standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane were used.
Results:
A total of 2929 nonduplicated records were identified, and based on the inclusion criteria, 11 studies were considered. Studies were heterogeneous, with differences in population and outcomes. Overall, we found evidence for an association between ionizing radiation exposure and dysbiosis: reduction in microbiota diversity and richness, increase in pathogenic bacteria abundance (Proteobacteria and Fusobacteria), and decrease in beneficial bacteria (Faecalibacterium and Bifidobacterium).
Conclusions:
This review highlights the importance of considering the influence of ionizing radiation exposure on gut microbiota, especially when considering the side effects of abdominal and pelvic radiotherapy. Better knowledge of these effects, with larger population studies, is needed.
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