Deducing the Interplay Between Gut Flora and Respiratory Diseases: A New Therapeutic Strategy?

Abstract

The gastrointestinal system, also referred to as the gut, is a universe that colonizes trillions of microbes. In addition to its digestive functions, the gut represents a biosystem that determines all the health vectors. It is now recognized as one of the body's defense systems, and good gut health regulates the body’s immune responses. Disturbance of this barrier can trigger many diseases, including respiratory tract infections, as there is a close correlation between the gut microbiome and the chances of triggering illness. This review investigates the various factors affecting the gut microbiome, the diseases that can result from the dysregulation of the same, and their molecular mechanisms. The most basic solution to tackle this problem is to maintain the gut microbiome at the desired level. Timely diagnosis and interventions are needed for the proper management of the ensuing conditions. It is important to address the effects of factors on the gut microbiome and thereby regulate this level. The study also found that dysregulation in the system can lead to various diseases such as asthma, COPD, lung cancer following their respective pathways. In short, this paper reinforces the importance of the gut microbiome, the need to maintain its average level, and the need for proper interventions to treat the consequences. The manuscript posit that medications, diet as well and good physiological conditions of the human body can alter the microbiome and can ward off respiratory infections.