Correction of the Taxonomic Composition of Human Gut Microbiota: Serine-Threonine Protein Kinases as Biotargets

Abstract

The gut microbiota (GM) plays an important role in maintaining the health of the human body. Normally, the taxonomic composition of the GM is characterized by great diversity and is balanced by genus and species, but this balance is impaired by various diseases. Different approaches to the correction of the taxonomic composition of the GM are known and are currently in use. Unfortunately, most approaches simultaneously affect a wide range of microorganisms, which leads to the development of dysbiotic disorders. This study discusses the possible use of bacterial serine-threonine protein kinases (STPKs), which can be affected by selective inhibitors, as biotargets. Since most STPKs are key regulators of such important processes as cell division and growth, their inhibition will lead to slower growth and microorganism functioning. This is especially important when correction of the GM taxonomic composition requires the exposure of probiotic microorganisms. Thus, the approach proposed for discussion, the selective inhibition of bacterial STPKs, is a “softer” tool than antibiotics, and the search for suitable STPK biotargets may be the first step towards the development of effective and selective inhibitors of bacterial STPKs.