The microbiome landscape in pediatric Crohn's disease and therapeutic implications

Karin Fetter1,2, Markus Weigel1, Benjamin Ott1

  • 1Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.

Gut Microbes
|August 24, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Gut microbiome dysbiosis and immune response are key in Crohn's disease (CD), affecting all ages. Understanding these factors and therapies impacting the microbiome is crucial for managing this condition.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Immunology
  • Microbiome Research

Background:

  • Crohn's disease (CD) involves gut microbiome dysbiosis and immune dysfunction.
  • CD incidence is rising in children and adolescents, linked to lifestyle and genetics.
  • Genetic factors in CD influence pathogen defense, mucosal integrity, and microbiome balance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of the gut microbiome in pediatric, adolescent, and adult CD.
  • To discuss current therapeutic strategies for CD.
  • To analyze the impact of CD therapies on the gut microbiome.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on CD and the gut microbiome.
  • Analysis of research on genetic factors in CD pathogenesis.
  • Examination of therapeutic interventions and their microbiome effects.

Main Results:

  • Gut microbiome alterations and reduced diversity are hallmarks of CD progression.
  • Environmental factors significantly influence the variable intestinal microbiome.
  • Therapeutic approaches targeting the microbiome show promise.

Conclusions:

  • The gut microbiome is central to CD pathogenesis across all age groups.
  • Therapeutic strategies must consider their impact on microbial composition.
  • Further research is needed to optimize microbiome-based CD treatments.

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