The role of intestinal microbiota in respiratory infections

Many diseases can affect our lungs. Respiratory infections are the subject of many studies, particularly during this pandemic period. The involvement of the intestinal microbiota in certain respiratory diseases opens the door for new therapeutic options. But we still need to understand the underlying mechanisms.

Created 07 May 2020
Updated 25 June 2024
Actu PRO un lien etabli entre microbiote intestinal et infections respiratoires

About this article

Created 07 May 2020
Updated 25 June 2024

An intestine-lung axis

Researchers recently rediscovered the critical role the intestinal microbiota plays in our defense mechanisms against infections. Changes in the composition of the intestinal microbiota (called dysbiosis) can affect our immune response and, as a result, can be involved in the onset of certain respiratory diseases like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and respiratory infections. Australian researchers have shed light on the connection between the microbiota and the “gut-lung” axis.

Focus on asthma and COPD

In the case of asthma, beyond revealing intestinal dysbiosis, a reduction of certain bacterial components in the stool (lipopolysaccharides) seems to be associated with a risk of developing symptoms. In COPD, it appears to be difficult to specify whether changes in the intestinal microbiota or the respiratory microbiota are the cause or the consequence of the disease. Nevertheless an undeniable "intestine-lung" link exists.

The protective effect of the intestinal microbiota

Lastly, for respiratory infections, the intestinal microbiota’s protective effect has largely been recognized: several studies have shown a link between imbalance in the microbiota, disruptions in immune defense mechanisms, and the development of bacterial or viral respiratory infections. Certain probiotic strains (particularly certain lactobacilli and certain bifidobacteria) have shown clinical usefulness in these circumstances. According to the authors, although additional studies are necessary to further understand the relationship between the intestinal microbiota and respiratory diseases, this result indicates the potential for the emergence of new therapeutic options.

To know more about Intestinal microbiota

Old sources

Sources:

Budden KF et al. Emerging pathogenic links between microbiota and the gut–lung axis. Nature reviews Microbiology 15, 55–63 (2017)

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