Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) and the Microbiome-Searching the Crime Scene for Clues

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) develop via convergence of environmental, microbial, immunological, and genetic factors. Alterations in the gut microbiota have been associated with development and progression of IBD, but it is not clear which populations of microbes are involved or how they might contribute to IBD. We review the genetic and environmental factors affecting the gut microbiota, the roles of gut microbes and their bioproducts in the development and clinical course of IBD, and strategies by which microbiome-based therapies can be used to prevent, manage, and eventually cure IBD. We discuss research findings that help bridge the gap between the basic sciences and clinical application.

Automated summary

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) result from the interaction of environmental, microbial, immunological, and genetic factors, with alterations in the gut microbiota playing a role in their development and progression. The use of microbiome-based therapies can potentially prevent, manage, and cure IBD, bridging the gap between basic sciences and clinical application through research findings.