Interplay between viral infections and gut microbiota dysbiosis: Mechanisms and therapeutic potential

Abstract

Viral infections, particularly those triggered by emerging pathogens like severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, are increasingly recognized for their profound impact on the gut microbiota, causing dysbiosis, a condition characterized by an imbalance in microbial communities. Recent studies suggest that alterations in gut microbiota can influence disease progression, immune responses, and clinical outcomes. The bidirectional relationship between the gut microbiota and the host immune system is crucial in shaping responses to infection. Furthermore, dysbiosis has been linked to exacerbated inflammation, impaired mucosal barrier function, and altered drug metabolism, thereby complicating both disease pathogenesis and treatment efficacy. This review examines the interplay between viral infections and gut microbiota dysbiosis, with a focus on the underlying mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies to modulate host immunity. We also evaluate the potential of microbiome-based interventions, such as probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, as therapeutic strategies for restoring microbial balance and mitigating the severity of infections. The paper underscores the need for further research to optimize microbiota-targeted therapies and integrate them into clinical practice, offering a comprehensive approach to managing dysbiosis in viral infectious diseases.

Keywords: Viral infection; SARS-CoV-2; COVID-19; Human immunodeficiency virus; Influenza; Hepatitis viruses; Gut microbiota; Dysbiosis; Probiotics; Fecal microbiota transplantation

Core Tip: Viral infections, including those caused by emerging pathogens like severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, can profoundly disrupt the gut microbiota, leading to dysbiosis that contributes to immune dysregulation, increased inflammation, and poorer clinical outcomes. These microbiota alterations can influence disease severity, increase susceptibility to secondary infections, and affect the metabolism of medications. Understanding the gut-virus-immune system interplay is essential for developing effective strategies to restore microbial balance. Microbiota-targeted therapies, including probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, offer promising options for managing dysbiosis in the context of viral infectious diseases.