Emerging Roles of the Gut Microbiome in Musculoskeletal Injury and Repair

Area of Science:

• Microbiome research
• Musculoskeletal health
• Tissue repair

Background:

• The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in overall health and disease.
• Its composition is linked to metabolic, gastrointestinal, and inflammatory conditions.
• Emerging evidence connects gut microbiota to musculoskeletal injury recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the relationship between gut microbiota and musculoskeletal injury.
• To explore the potential of microbiome-targeted therapies for improving healing.
• To identify gaps in current research and future directions.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of existing literature.
• Analysis of preclinical studies on microbiota interventions.
• Discussion of mechanisms linking gut microbiota to tissue repair.

Main Results:

• Musculoskeletal injuries alter gut microbiota, increase intestinal permeability, and promote inflammation, hindering tissue repair.
• Preclinical studies show probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation can improve gut barrier function, reduce inflammation, and normalize metabolites.
• These interventions show potential for enhancing musculoskeletal healing.

Conclusions:

• The gut microbiota is a significant factor in musculoskeletal injury recovery.
• Microbiota-targeted interventions offer a promising therapeutic avenue.
• Further clinical trials and mechanistic studies are essential for clinical translation.