Clinical and biological significance of the relationship between gut microbiota and liver disease

Abstract

The gut microbiota is of growing interest to clinicians and researchers due to its elucidating extensive role in metabolic and immune mechanisms, not only in the gut but also in other organs. The liver shares a close bidirectional relationship with the intestine and the gut microbiota. Disturbances in the composition of the gut microbiota can affect the immune systems of both the intestine and liver. In turn, bile composition also influences the gut microbiota. Disruption of this balance can arise from various causes and may significantly impact intestinal and liver health. Therefore, the aim of the current review is to discuss the biological relationships between the gut microbiota and liver function as well as the clinical significance of their disturbances.

Keywords: Gut microbiota; Liver disease; Immunometabolism; Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease; Bile; Innate immune system; Short-chain fatty acids

Core Tip: The gut microbiota has numerous metabolic and immune connections not only to the gut itself but also to other organs, including the lungs, brain, and liver. The gut-liver connection is bidirectional, and disruptions in this relationship contribute to the development of various liver diseases. Modulation of gut microbiota composition and function forms the basis of therapeutic strategies for conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma.