Microscopic Colitis and Gut Microbiota: A Narrative Review.

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Immunology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Microscopic colitis (MC) is a chronic inflammatory colon disorder with unknown causes.
• MC includes collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis subtypes.
• Genetic, environmental, and immune factors are potential risk factors for MC.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current findings on the gut microbiota's role in microscopic colitis.
• To explore mechanisms linking microbial dysbiosis to intestinal inflammation and clinical outcomes in MC.
• To discuss potential therapeutic strategies involving microbiota modulation for MC.

Main Methods:

• This study is a narrative review of existing research.
• It synthesizes findings on gut microbiota composition and diversity in MC patients.
• The review examines the interplay between the gut immune system and microbial factors in MC.

Main Results:

• Evidence suggests alterations in gut microbiota composition and diversity contribute to MC pathogenesis.
• Specific bacterial taxa and microbial dysbiosis are implicated in intestinal inflammation.
• The gut immune system's response to microbial changes is crucial in MC.

Conclusions:

• The gut microbiota plays a significant role in the development and progression of microscopic colitis.
• Understanding microbiota-associated mechanisms is key to developing effective treatments for MC.
• Microbiota-targeted therapies hold promise for managing MC, but further research is needed.