The role of gut microbiota in modulating immune responses to neglected tropical diseases: A new frontier in host-pathogen interactions

Abstract

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), such as Leishmaniasis, Chagas’ disease, and trypanosomiasis affect billions of people worldwide, particularly in low-income regions, and pose significant public health challenges. Emerging evidence suggests that gut microbiota play a crucial role in modulating immune responses to these infections, influencing disease progression and host defence mechanisms. This review examines the interplay between gut microbiota and the immune system in the context of NTDs, highlighting mechanisms such as microbial-mediated immune priming, modulation of inflammation, and interactions with pathogenic organisms. Dysbiosis—an imbalance in gut microbiota—has been implicated in exacerbating NTDs pathogenesis, while microbiome-targeted interventions offer potential therapeutic strategies. A deeper understanding of host-microbiota interactions may facilitate the development of novel approaches to NTDs management, integrating microbiome modulation into existing treatment and preventive frameworks. Further research is necessary to elucidate specific microbial signatures associated with NTDs and their potential for therapeutic exploitation.