Unraveling the Gut's Pathophysiological Axes: Environmental, Nutritional, and Psychosocial Influences on the Neuroendocrine and Immunometabolic Activity of the Gut Microbiome

The gut microbiome, comprising trillions of microorganisms residing in the gastrointestinal tract, plays a vital role in maintaining the overall health of the host. Its ecological balance and intricate interactions give rise to crucial bioreactor activities essential for various physiological processes and overall well-being. The gut microbiome performs a range of complex metabolic transformations by functioning as a bioreactor. It helps break down dietary components that are otherwise indigestible by the host. By fermenting them, the gut microbiome produces short-chain fatty acids, vitamins, and other bioactive metabolites crucial for energy production, nutrient absorption, and immune modulation. Furthermore, the gut microbiome is a vital regulator of the host immune system. It aids in the development and maturation of immune cells, supports the maintenance of intestinal barrier integrity, and plays a role in immune tolerance and inflammation regulation. Imbalances in the gut microbiome, known as dysbiosis, have been associated with various health conditions, including metabolic disorders, inflammatory bowel diseases, allergies, and even neurological disorders.

Intestinal dysbiosis is associated with diseases that affect the intestines but also have implications throughout the body, including the brain, lungs, heart, joints, skin, and eyes, among others. Understanding the impact of intestinal dysbiosis on various organ systems is crucial for unraveling the complex mechanisms underlying disease development and progression. By investigating the intricate interactions between the gut microbiome and different organs, we can identify potential therapeutic targets and novel interventions for restoring microbial balance and improving health outcomes. This Research Topic aims to explore the wide-ranging implications of intestinal dysbiosis on organs beyond the intestines.

Researchers are encouraged to submit original research articles, reviews, mini-reviews, systematic reviews, case reports, perspectives, short communications, theoretical papers, opinions, and methods focusing on the pathophysiological connections between the intestine and other organs that will cover topics such as (but not limited to):

- brain-gut axis

- lung-intestine axis

- (kidney)-heart-gut axis

- dysbiosis and immune metabolism

- relationship between intestinal microorganisms and mucosal immunity

- influence of the intestine on psychic alterations and psycho-social behavior

- role of the microbiota in immune-mediated and metabolic diseases

- intestinal microbiota and sport

- cancer and intestinal microorganisms

- nutritional modulation of the intestinal microbiota

- prebiotics, probiotics, postbiotics, or fecal transplantation as future therapeutic strategies