Microbiota and epigenetics: promising therapeutic approaches?

Abstract

The direct/indirect responsibility of the gut microbiome in disease induction in and outside the digestive tract is well studied. These results are usually from the overpopulation of certain species on the cost of others, interaction with beneficial microflora, interference with normal epigenetic control mechanisms, or suppression of the immune system. Consequently, it is theoretically possible to cure such disorders by rebalancing the microbiome inside our bodies. This can be achieved by changing the lifestyle pattern and diet or by supplementation with beneficial bacteria or their metabolites. Various approaches have been explored to manipulate the normal microbial inhabitants, including nutraceutical, supplementations with prebiotics, probiotics, postbiotics, synbiotics, and antibiotics, or through microbiome transplantation (fecal, skin, or vaginal microbiome transplantation). In the present review, the interaction between the microbiome and epigenetics and their role in disease induction is discussed. Possible future therapeutic approaches via the reestablishment of equilibrium in our internal micro-ecosystem are also highlighted.