Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 16, 2026
Therapeutic Evaluation of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in an Interleukin 10-Deficient Mouse Model
Published on: April 6, 2022
Patients' view on fecal microbiota transplantation in disorders of gut-brain interaction: a survey-based study
Valeria Schindler1, Jonas Zeitz2, Amanda Bianca3
1Division of Gastroenterology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland - valeria.schindler@usz.ch.
Background:
Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has gained popularity over the last years. So far, conflicting data regarding the effect on disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI) exist. In this study we aimed to access current knowledge and attitude towards potential FMT of DGBI patients.
Methods:
A survey on attitudes toward FMT was conducted in DGBI patients. Patients answered questions anonymously before and after having read a brief information sheet on FMT. Data were collected prospectively in 2017-2018 and in 2022-2023.
Results:
In total, 387 patients completed the survey. Forty percent of patients had heard about FMT prior to underlying survey. Prior to a brief information regarding FMT, 38% of patients would have agreed to FMT, while 50% were undecided and 12% would have declined. After a brief information sheet on FMT, decisions significantly changed to 63%, 26% and 11% respectively (P<0.001). The decision of patients to undergo FMT remained unchanged between 2017 and 2022. Type of DGBI and disease severity are significantly associated with treatment decisions (P=0.005).
Conclusions:
This survey demonstrates great interest of DGBI patients in potential FMT, especially after being informed on details of the procedure. Bearing in mind that in the future FMT may be a clearer option in the treatment of certain DGBIs, patient education will be an important factor.
Insights
Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) shows potential for treating gut-brain interaction disorders (DGBI). Patient interest in FMT significantly increases after receiving information, highlighting the importance of patient education for future DGBI treatments.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology and microbiome research.
- Patient attitudes and treatment decision-making.
Background:
- Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is increasingly recognized, but its impact on gut-brain interaction disorders (DGBI) remains debated.
- Understanding patient perspectives on FMT for DGBI is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the current knowledge and attitudes of DGBI patients towards fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT).
- To evaluate how patient decisions regarding FMT change after receiving information about the procedure.
Main Methods:
- An anonymous survey was administered to DGBI patients before and after they read an informational sheet on FMT.
- Data were collected prospectively across two periods: 2017-2018 and 2022-2023.
Main Results:
- Out of 387 participants, 40% had prior awareness of FMT.
- Informed patients showed a significant increase in willingness to undergo FMT (38% to 63%, P<0.001).
- Treatment decisions were associated with DGBI type and disease severity, and remained stable between survey periods.
Conclusions:
- DGBI patients exhibit substantial interest in FMT, particularly once educated about the process.
- Patient education is vital for informed decision-making regarding FMT as a potential DGBI therapy.
Related Concept Videos
01:22Gut-Brain Axis
01:18Functions of the Gut Microbiota
01:50What is Monogastric Digestion?
01:17Chronic Bowel Disorders: Introduction
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder affecting the gastrointestinal tract. The distinctive feature is recurrent abdominal pain associated with altered bowel movements, manifesting as constipation, diarrhea, or fluctuating between both. The...
01:30Irritable Bowel Syndrome II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Evaluation
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is classified into subtypes based on the predominant bowel habits as determined by the Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS). The subtypes are:
01:30Inflammatory Bowel Disease III: Diagnostic Studies and Management I-Nutritional Therapy
Diagnostic studies
A colonoscopy is the definitive screening test, distinguishing ulcerative colitis from other colon diseases with similar symptoms. During a colonoscopy test, inflamed mucosa with exudate ulcerations can be observed, and biopsies are taken to determine the histologic characteristics of the...