Gut microbial signatures and stability are associated with a co-diagnosis of endometriosis and inflammatory bowel...

Emerging evidence suggests that the gut microbiota plays a crucial role in endometriosis (Endo) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This study aimed to explore gut microbial signatures in women with either or both conditions, compared to healthy controls. Fecal samples underwent 16S rRNA sequencing to profile the gut microbiome. Endo-IBD patients had the most profound alterations including reduced microbial richness and evenness as well as bacterial signature changes. Specific bacteria taxa, including Akkermansia and Alistipes, were notably depleted in Endo-IBD patients, suggesting a compromised gut barrier and heightened inflammatory potential. Conversely, Blautia was enriched in Endo-IBD patients. Longitudinal microbiome assessment indicated a persistent dysbiotic signature in Endo-IBD and IBD groups, with microbial instability correlating with disease severity. The findings highlight an intensified impact of having a diagnosis of both conditions and further highlights the potential for microbiome-based diagnostics and the design of personalized interventions to restore microbial balance.