Features of Gut Microbiome Associated With Responses to Fecal Microbiota Transplantation for Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review

The Importance of Microbiota and Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in Pancreatic Disorders

The role of the intestinal microbiota in the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic diseases is increasingly significant. Consequently, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is emerging as a promising therapeutic avenue for various pancreatic disorders, including cancer, pancreatitis, and type 1 diabetes (T1D). This innovative procedure entails transferring gut microbiota from healthy donors to individuals affected by pancreatic ailments with the potential to restore intestinal balance and alleviate associated symptoms. FMT represents a pioneering approach to improve patient outcomes in pancreatic diseases, offering tailored treatments customized to individual microbiomes and specific conditions. Recent research highlights the therapeutic benefits of targeting the gut microbiota for personalized interventions in pancreatic disorders. However, a comprehensive understanding of the intricate interplay between gut microbiota and pancreatic physiology warrants further investigation. The necessity for additional studies and research endeavors remains crucial, especially in elucidating both adult and pediatric cases affected by pathological pancreatic conditions.

Current perspectives on fecal microbiota transplantation in inflammatory bowel disease

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has emerged as a promising therapeutic modality within the domain of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). While FMT has secured approval and demonstrated efficacy in addressing recurrent and refractory Clostridioides difficile infection, its application in IBD remains an area of active exploration and research. The current status of FMT in IBD reflects a nuanced landscape, with ongoing investigations delving into its effectiveness, safety and optimal implementation. Early-stage clinical trials and observational studies have provided insights into the potential of FMT to modulate the dysbiotic gut microbiota associated with IBD, aiming to mitigate inflammation and promote mucosal healing. However, considerable complexities persist, including variations in donor selection, treatment protocols and outcome assessments. Challenges in standardizing FMT protocols for IBD treatment are compounded by the dynamic nature of the gut microbiome and the heterogeneity of IBD itself. Despite these challenges, enthusiasm for FMT in IBD emanates from its capacity to address gut microbial dysbiosis, signifying a paradigm shift towards more comprehensive approaches in IBD management. As ongoing research progresses, an enhanced understanding of FMT's role in IBD therapy is anticipated. This article synthesizes the current status of FMT in IBD, elucidating the attendant challenges and aspiring towards the refinement of its application for improved patient outcomes.

The Next Generation Fecal Microbiota Transplantation: To Transplant Bacteria or Virome

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach for dysbiosis-related diseases. However, the clinical practice of crude fecal transplants presents limitations in terms of acceptability and reproductivity. Consequently, two alternative solutions to FMT are developed: transplanting bacteria communities or virome. Advanced methods for transplanting bacteria mainly include washed microbiota transplantation and bacteria spores treatment. Transplanting the virome is also explored, with the development of fecal virome transplantation, which involves filtering the virome from feces. These approaches provide more palatable options for patients and healthcare providers while minimizing research heterogeneity. In general, the evolution of the next generation of FMT in global trends is fecal microbiota components transplantation which mainly focuses on transplanting bacteria or virome.

Role of short chain fatty acids in gut health and possible therapeutic approaches in inflammatory bowel diseases

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are characterized by inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract and include Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease. These diseases are costly to health services, substantially reduce patients’ quality of life, and can lead to complications such as cancer and even death. Symptoms include abdominal pain, stool bleeding, diarrhea, and weight loss. The treatment of these diseases is symptomatic, seeking disease remission. The intestine is colonized by several microorganisms, such as fungi, viruses, and bacteria, which constitute the intestinal microbiota (IM). IM bacteria promotes dietary fibers fermentation and produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that exert several beneficial effects on intestinal health. SCFAs can bind to G protein-coupled receptors, such as GPR41 and GPR43, promoting improvements in the intestinal barrier, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. Thus, SCFAs could be a therapeutic tool for IBDs. However, the mechanisms involved in these beneficial effects of SCFAs remain poorly understood. Therefore, this paper aims to provide a review addressing the main aspects of IBDs, and a more detailed sight of SCFAs, focusing on the main effects on different aspects of the intestine with an emphasis on IBDs.