The gut-liver axis and gut microbiota in health and liver disease

The trillions of microorganisms in the human intestine are important regulators of health, and disruptions in the gut microbial communities can cause disease. The gut, liver and immune system have a symbiotic relationship with these microorganisms. Environmental factors, such as high-fat diets and alcohol consumption, can disrupt and alter microbial communities. This dysbiosis can lead to dysfunction of the intestinal barrier, translocation of microbial components to the liver and development or progression of liver disease. Changes in metabolites produced by gut microorganisms can also contribute to liver disease. In this Review, we discuss the importance of the gut microbiota in maintenance of health and the alterations in microbial mediators that contribute to liver disease. We present strategies for modulation of the intestinal microbiota and/or their metabolites as potential treatments for liver disease. In this Review, Hsu and Schnabl examine the role of the gut microbiota in liver and intestine function, and how gut microorganisms contribute to liver diseases, and explore different microbiota-based strategies for the treatment of liver disease.

Automated summary

The trillions of microorganisms in the human intestine play a crucial role in maintaining health, and disruptions in the gut microbial communities can lead to diseases. The gut microbiota has a symbiotic relationship with the gut, liver, and immune system. Environmental factors such as high-fat diets and alcohol consumption can disrupt and alter the microbial communities, resulting in dysfunction of the intestinal barrier, translocation of microbial components to the liver, and the development or progression of liver disease.