The Potential Relationship between Animal Gut Microbiota and Liver Disease

Gut microbiota significantly contributes to host metabolism, immunity, food decomposition, and the integrity of the intestinal barrier. The preservation of these functions relies on a stable structure of the gut microbiota within the host. However, the gut microbiota is susceptible to alterations and dysbiosis induced by external factors. Research indicates that dysbiosis of the gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in the development of various diseases, including diarrhea, colitis, and colorectal cancer. Recently, there has been an increasing focus on the potential relationship between gut microbiota and liver disease in animal models. Evidence suggests that intestinal metabolites, such as vitamins and short-chain fatty acids, support liver health. As a recipient of intestinal-derived products, the liver secretes bile acids that influence the gut-liver axis and the composition of the gut microbiota. The interplay between the intestine and the liver is essential for the proper functioning of the enterohepatic cycle and for maintenance of host health. Importantly, dysbiosis of the gut microbiota can disrupt this bidirectional relationship, potentially leading to inflammation, oxidative stress, and the progression of liver diseases such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, hepatitis, and even liver cancer. Therefore, maintaining a balanced gut microbiota may help mitigate liver damage and the progression of liver-related diseases.

In this Research Topic, we aim to elucidate the changes in gut microbiota associated with various liver diseases, as well as the relationship between gut microbiota and the onset of liver disease, through a multidisciplinary approach that integrates multi-omics techniques. Our objective is to enhance the understanding of the pathogenesis of liver disease and to develop corresponding strategies from the perspective of gut microbiota via animal models.

We welcome Mini-Reviews, full-length Reviews, and Original Research papers. Our Research Topic includes, but is not necessarily limited to:
o The changes in animal gut microbiota and intestinal physiological functions during liver diseases, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, hepatitis, and liver cancer.
o The potential relationship between animal gut microbial dysbiosis and liver diseases, alongside corresponding coping strategies.
o Mechanisms by which fecal microbiota transplantation, traditional Chinese medicine, probiotics, and other interventions alleviate liver diseases by regulating gut microbiota in animal models.
o The mechanisms by which gut microbiota influence liver diseases in animal models, including through the production of enzymes, antimicrobial peptides, and short-chain fatty acids.

Keywords: gut microbiota, intestinal function, liver disease, gut-liver axis, multi-omics

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