Introduction
Around 5-8% of the global population suffers from autoimmune disease. A wide array of symptoms can debilitate millions for hours, days, or weeks. Autoimmune diseases are complex and scientists have identified more than 80 unique disorders. These diseases have numerous causes with both genetic and environmental factors contributing to their development. One such factor is the gut microbiome. The gut microbiome encompasses bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microorganisms. The diet and lifestyle of a host can change the abundance, composition, and diversity of the gut microbiome, leading to shifts that may influence immune function. Our microbiome has vast effects on various aspects of our health, including digestion, nutrient production, drug effects, resistance to pathogens, and immune regulation. In this article, the role of the gut microbiome in the onset and severity of autoimmune disorders will be explored.
Role of the gut in the immune system and autoimmune disease
The gut microbiome plays a wide variety of roles in both the innate and adaptive immune systems. The gut microbiota significantly influences the balance between T helper 17 (Th17) cells and regulatory T (Treg) cells. Microbial metabolites modulate cytokine production, affecting the differentiation of T-cells. The gut microbiome influences the local immune environment by interacting with intestinal epithelial cells and immune cells, such as dendritic cells.
Despite its importance to the immune system, dysfunction of the gut microbiome plays a key role in its dysregulation. Changes in specific microbial populations and altered gut permeability contribute to the pathogenesis of these disorders. For example, dysbiosis, or an imbalance in the gut microbiome, has been linked to the onset and progression of various autoimmune diseases. Gut dysbiosis is associated with multiple sclerosis (MS). Alterations in gut microbiota composition have been linked to systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE) as well. Specifically in Rheomoutid Arthritis (RA) studies have found an overrepresentation of Prevotella copri. However, in mice models Prevotella histicola, also a member of the Prevotella genus, has been found to have a positive effect on RA, suggesting that the effects the Prevotella genus may be strain-dependent. In mice or human models, other studies have shown Collinsella, Eggerthella lenta, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and P. copri to worsen or induce RA.
The gut microbiome plays a significant role in multiple autoimmune diseases. However, this begs the question as to what measures can be taken to keep the gut microbiome healthy.
Keeping your gut healthy
One way of keeping the gut microbiome healthy is probiotics. Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, offer health benefits to the host. Several strains have shown promise in modulating autoimmune responses through their ability to restore gut microbiome balance and regulate immune function. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG has been shown to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines and enhance regulatory T-cell activity. In studies on autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), this strain demonstrated an ability to suppress inflammation and improve clinical symptoms.
Another option is prebiotics. Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that serve as food for beneficial gut bacteria, fostering their growth and activity. Common prebiotics include inulin, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), and galactooligosaccharides (GOS).
Conclusion
In conclusion, the gut microbiome plays a large role in human health, especially in the context of immunology. Through interactions with cells and metabolites, the gut microbiome plays a critical role in the differentiation of immune cells. In autoimmune disease specifically, dysbiosis plays a role in the severity of a number of diseases including RA, SLE, and MS. A healthy microbiome is key. With probiotics and prebiotics being accessible options for keeping you, and the billions of microbes throughout your body, happy and healthy.
References
9.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20920376/ Image: https://www.dreamstime.com/illustration/cartoon-microbiome.html Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board