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Schistosomiasis-Microbiota Interactions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Philip Afful1, Godwin Kwami Abotsi1, Czarina Owusua Adu-Gyamfi1
1Biomedical and Clinical Research Centre, College of Health and Allied Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana.
Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)
|October 25, 2024
Summary
Schistosomiasis significantly alters the host microbiome, increasing susceptibility to bacterial infections. Treatment combined with probiotics may reduce disease severity by restoring microbial balance.
Area of Science:
- Microbiome Research
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Schistosomiasis affects millions globally, caused by parasitic flatworms like Schistosoma mansoni and S. haematobium.
- The gut and urinary tract microbiota play a role in schistosomiasis susceptibility, but this interaction is not fully understood.
- This study systematically reviews the relationship between schistosomiasis and the host microbiome.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the intricate relationship between schistosomiasis and the host's microbiota.
- To provide crucial insights into disease pathogenesis and management strategies.
- To analyze the impact of different Schistosoma species and praziquantel treatment on the microbiome.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and meta-analysis adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
- Searched multiple databases and Google Scholar for relevant peer-reviewed articles.
- Utilized Meta-Mar v3.5.1 for analysis, including random-effects models and subgroup analysis; assessed heterogeneity using Cochran's Q test and Higgins' I² statistic.
Main Results:
- A significant association was found between schistosomiasis and altered host microbiomes across various sample types (blood, stool, urine, etc.).
- S. haematobium and S. mansoni infections, as well as praziquantel treatment, significantly contributed to heterogeneity in microbiome alterations.
- Schistosoma infections in both males and females showed a higher risk of altering the host microbiome.
Conclusions:
- Schistosomiasis disrupts the host microbiota, increasing susceptibility to opportunistic bacterial pathogens like E. coli and Klebsiella.
- Microbiome disruption contributes to inflammation and disease progression; gender-specific approaches are needed for FGS management.
- Combining praziquantel treatment with probiotics may mitigate disease severity by addressing microbiome imbalances.
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