Promises of microbiome-based therapies

Humans harbour large quantities of microbes, including bacteria, fungi, viruses and archaea, in the gut. Patients with liver disease exhibit changes in the intestinal microbiota and gut barrier dysfunction. Preclinical models demonstrate the importance of the gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of various liver diseases. In this review, we discuss how manipulation of the gut microbiota can be used as a novel treatment approach for liver disease. We summarise current data on untargeted approaches, including probiotics and faecal microbiota transplantation, and precision microbiome-centered therapies, including engineered bacteria, postbiotics and phages, for the treatment of liver diseases. Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of European Association for the Study of the Liver.

Automated summary

This review discusses the importance of manipulating the gut microbiota as a novel treatment approach for liver diseases. It highlights the changes in intestinal microbiota and gut barrier dysfunction in patients with liver disease. Preclinical models demonstrate the significant role of gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of various liver diseases.