Cross-talk between immune system and microbiota in COVID-19

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Immunology
• Virology

Background:

• The human gut microbiota is vital for immune homeostasis and pathogen defense.
• A bidirectional communication pathway, the gut-lung axis (GLA), connects the gut and lung microbiota.
• Gut dysbiosis can lead to immune dysregulation, impairing antiviral responses against viruses like SARS-CoV-2.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review mechanisms of immune system interaction with intestinal microbial dysbiosis.
• To explore the role of probiotics in restoring gut microbiota balance.
• To discuss the modulation of cytokine storm in viral infections.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of emerging data.
• Focus on mechanisms of gut microbiota-immune system interactions.
• Discussion of probiotic interventions and cytokine storm modulation.

Main Results:

• Microbiota-derived signals are crucial for immune regulation and tissue protection during severe viral respiratory infections.
• Imbalances in gut microbiota metabolites contribute to immune dysregulation.
• Probiotics show potential in rebalancing gut microbiota and mitigating cytokine storm.

Conclusions:

• Equilibration of the gut-lung axis (GLA) is a promising strategy for managing SARS-CoV-2 infection.
• Maintaining gut microbiota balance supports immune defense against viral pathogens.
• Targeting the GLA may reduce mortality and morbidity associated with severe respiratory viral infections.