Use Of Probiotics Research Articles (Page 5)

BackgroundThe aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the effects of probiotic supplementation and diet-supported probiotic use on periodontal clinical parameters in individuals with periodontitis.MethodsA total of 120 female participants aged between 20 and 60 years, diagnosed with periodontitis and without systemic diseases, were included in the study. Participants were randomly assigned into three groups: control group (conventional treatment), probiotic group (conventional treatment + probiotics), and diet + probiotic group (conventional treatment + probiotics + personalized diet). Clinical evaluations were performed using measurements of probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment loss (CAL), while dietary intake was assessed using three-day food records. Data were analyzed using SPSS 21.0 software, and p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultsAfter a six-week follow-up, significant reductions in PD and CAL were observed in the probiotic and especially the diet-supported probiotic groups (p < 0.001). In the diet + probiotic group, PD improved by 41.5% and CAL by 42.7%. Nutritional analysis revealed that protein and fiber intake supported periodontal improvement, whereas sugar and carbohydrate consumption had negative effects (p < 0.05).ConclusionProbiotics were found to support periodontal healing, and this effect was significantly enhanced by a personalized anti-inflammatory diet. It is recommended that probiotics and balanced nutrition be integrated into a holistic approach in the treatment of periodontitis.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06944938, First Submitted: 10/04/2025 (Retrospectively registered) First Posted: 25/04/2025.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12903-025-06510-4.

Bipolar disorder (BD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) frequently co-occur, complicating treatment due to overlapping symptoms and limited efficacy of conventional pharmacotherapy. Emerging evidence indicates gut dysbiosis in neuropsychiatric pathophysiology via the gut-brain axis, suggesting probiotics as a potential adjunctive intervention. However, their utility in comorbid BD-ADHD remains unexplored. A 15-year-old male with comorbid BD and ADHD exhibited persistent manic symptoms (YMRS:42/60) and hyperactivity despite treatment with aripiprazole and lamotrigine. While manic symptoms improved post-treatment (YMRS:9/60), ADHD-related impulsivity and behavioral dysregulation remained, as shown by the Vanderbilt ADHD scales. Adjunctive probiotics were initiated due to familial preference against stimulant medication. Over 18 months, clinical improvement in both ADHD-related symptoms and residual behavioral dysregulation, as evidenced by follow-up scale scores. This case highlights probiotics as a potential adjunctive therapy for comorbid BD-ADHD, potentially modulating the gut-brain axis pathways to address residual symptoms unresponsive to conventional pharmacotherapy. Further controlled trials are needed to validate microbiota-targeted interventions in complex neuropsychiatric comorbidities.

Introduction. The gut-brain axis connects the gastrointestinal environment to the Central Nervous System (CNS), being crucial for homeostasis. Changes in this connection are associated with neuropsychiatric disorders, such as depression and anxiety, often linked to gastrointestinal comorbidities. Objective. Explore the role of the gut microbiota in regulating the brain-gut axis and its contributions to the understanding and treatment of neurological disorders. Method. The research used an integrative literature review with data collected from databases such as PubMed and ScienceDirect. Articles published between 2014 and 2025 were selected, using descriptors such as "Gut microbiota", "Brain-gut axis" and "Neurological disorders”. After screening, 17 studies were included in the analysis. Results. The studies reviewed indicate that the intestinal microbiota plays a crucial role in regulating the brain-gut axis, influencing neurological disorders such as depression, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Changes in the microbiota affect neurotransmitters and inflammation, being. that interventions such as probiotics and specific diets show promise. Advanced technologies have expanded the understanding of these interactions, opening the way for new therapeutic approaches. Conclusion This article highlights the relationship between the intestinal microbiota and the brain-gut axis. healthy lives and interventions such as the use of probiotics contribute to the restoration of microbial balance and the reduction of neurodegenerative processes.

Objective: This systematic review aims to examine the role of the maternal gut microbiome in regulating endocrine function during pregnancy and the postpartum period, and its effects on neonatal health. Additionally, it assesses the effectiveness of microbiome-targeted interventions and identifies knowledge gaps in the current literature to inform future research directions. Design and Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library. Out of 94 identified records, 19 studies met the inclusion criteria based on the PICOST framework. The included studies were critically appraised using the Caldwell framework. Results: Findings indicate that metabolites derived from the maternal gut microbiome influence maternal endocrine function, affecting maternal weight and neonatal outcomes such as birth weight and length. Specific microbial profiles were found to predict gestational age and neonatal development, while some were linked to excessive fetal growth. In cases of gestational diabetes mellitus, notable dysbiosis was observed in both mothers and their newborns, with significant implications for health. The use of probiotics showed mixed results, beneficial in some studies, ineffective in others. Conclusion: The maternal gut microbiome plays a critical role in maternal and neonatal health by interacting with the endocrine system and influencing key developmental outcomes. However, this emerging field remains under-researched. Further longitudinal and mechanistic studies are needed to clarify causal pathways and to evaluate the clinical utility of microbiome-based interventions during pregnancy.

The study was conducted at the Vannamei Shrimp Pond Unit of the Pontianak State Polytechnic Technology Excellence Center, Mempawah Regency, and the Vannamei Shrimp Enlargement Unit of the Vocational and Nautikan High School, Sambas Regency. The study aims to determine the growth performance and survival of vannamei shrimp feed conversion intensively raised using probiotics in the dry season (March-August) and the rainy season (September-February) in 2022-2023. PL-15 vannamei shrimp fry were stocked at a density of 120/m2 in 2 pond plots with an area of 2,500 m2 and 2 pond plots of 3000 m2. The data collection method used observation and participation in the cultivation process, starting from land preparation, feed management, and water quality to harvest. The data were analysed descriptively, and a literature review was conducted to compare the technical activities applied in the field with the supporting theoretical basis. From the 120-day maintenance activity in the dry season, the average value of SR was 98.27%, biomass 26,749.7 kg, ABW 41.58 gr/pcs, ADG 0.27 gr/pcs, this shows relatively better results when compared to the rainy season maintenance period with an average value of SR 85.73, Biomass 20,794.6 kg, ABW 35.11 gr/pcs, ADG 0.21gr/pcs.Keywords:ProbioticsVannamei ShrimpIntensiveDry SeasonRainy Season

The use of probiotics to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers in agriculture has proven to be a promising area of research, especially as the agricultural sector searches for sustainable alternatives to synthetic agents. However, there are few studies integrating probiotics into agricultural practices, especially in lettuce cultivation, to minimize the use of chemical fertilizers. Most previous research has focused on the effects of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and microalgae on yield, with little consideration of the combined effects of different microorganisms under the same soil and growing conditions. In this study, the effects of microbial biostimulants on the efficiency of fertilizer use in lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) cultivation were investigated, reducing the use of chemical fertilizers by 25%. The trial was conducted as a randomized block trial in a high tunnel greenhouse and comprised eight treatments: a negative control (T0, no chemical fertilizers or microorganisms), a positive control (T1, 500 kg ha−1 NPK fertilizer) and treatments with single biostimulants — microalgae (Chlorella vulgaris, T2), plant probiotic microorganisms (PPMs, Lactobacillus spp, Rhodopseudomonas palustris, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, T3), and PGPRs (Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, T4). Further treatments combined reduced fertilizer (375 kg ha−1 NPK) with microalgae (T5), PPMs (T6) and PGPRs (T7). The results showed that T6 (PPMs + reduced fertilizer) achieved the highest plant weight (364 g) and leaf length (43.8 cm), with increases of 152% and 128%, respectively, compared to the control (T0). Chlorophyll content improved significantly in T5 (27.5%) and T7 (29.4%) compared to T0. Biomass production was 78% higher in T6 than in T1, while T5 and T7 showed a moderate increase in biomass of 42% and 47%, respectively. Cluster analysis identified T6 as the most effective treatment, outperforming T1 in growth parameters. These results demonstrate the potential of microbial biostimulants, especially in combination with reduced chemical fertilizers, to increase plant growth, biomass production and fertilizer efficiency. The study underlines their role in promoting sustainable agriculture and provides a basis for future research under different soil and environmental conditions.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12870-025-06986-w.

The gut microbiota plays a vital role in human health, and probiotics and prebiotics are commonly used to modulate its composition; however, clinical practices related to their use vary widely. This study aimed to determine the level of knowledge and clinical practices regarding probiotic use among physicians from various Latin American countries. A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted using an online survey targeting licensed physicians with active clinical experience. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, probiotic-related knowledge, and clinical practices were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics and correlation tests. A total of 850 physicians participated, 62% of whom were women. Most respondents correctly identified probiotics (693; 81.53%), synbiotics (658; 77.41%), and prebiotics (539; 63.41%), while the term postbiotics had the highest rate of incorrect responses (375; 44.12%). The primary reported purpose for probiotic use was microbiota modulation (829; 97.53%), and the most reported side effects were abdominal distension (287; 30.70%) and sepsis (124; 13.26%). Yogurt was the most frequently recognized food source (776; 45.81%), and the most recommended strains were Saccharomyces boulardii (704; 82.8%) and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG (688; 81.0%). These findings reveal a strong interest in probiotics among Latin American physicians. Although general knowledge is adequate, conceptual gaps remain—particularly regarding less familiar terms—highlighting the need for targeted educational strategies.

Aim: To analyze the features of antibacterial treatment in children hospitalized for community-acquired pneumonia and the potential influence of dysbiosis. Materials and Methods: The work analyzed medical records of 51 children, aged 2 to 13 years, who were hospitalized with community-acquired pneumonia. Clinical symptoms, severity of the course, structure and duration of basic treatment measures, their cost, and signs of dysbiosis were studied in the patients. Results: The average duration of hospital treatment for patients with community-acquired pneumonia was 13.3 ± 0.62 days, with 28 cases lasting between 14 and 30 days. Given the community-acquired nature of the infection, the initial use of cephalosporins was irrational and significantly increased the cost of treatment. After one week, signs of intestinal swelling, increased peristalsis, and unstable defecation, assessed as gut dysbiosis, appeared. Some symptoms, such as irritation in the throat, persistent cough, difficulty clearing mucus, shortness of breath, wheezing, and others, were regarded as signs of respiratory dysbiosis. The use of probiotics was initiated. Conclusions: The study established the irrational use of third- and fourth-generation cephalosporins as first-line antibacterial treatment. Symptoms of intestinal discomfort and manifestations of mucociliary respiratory tract dysfunction should be regarded as gut-lung axis phenomena of dysbiosis.

The role of probiotics in the non-surgical management of peri-implantitis: a systematic review.

Secondary methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection causes high mortality in patients with influenza A virus (IAV). Our previous study observed that the relative abundance of Lactobacillus murinus (L. murinus) was significantly reduced in both the respiratory tract and gut of IAV-infected mice and negatively correlated with the severity of IAV–MRSA coinfection pneumonia, but the role of L. murinus remains unclear. Here, we supplemented the respiratory tract and gut of IAV-infected mice with live L. murinus and performed a secondary MRSA infection challenge to investigate the effects and potential mechanisms further. Data showed that L. murinus supplementation significantly reduced mortality and pathogen loads in IAV–MRSA coinfected mice and upregulated the lung T cell-independent (TI) IgA response in IAV-infected mice. The 16S rRNA gene sequencing results showed that L. murinus supplementation ameliorated microbiota composition disorder and regulated metabolic dysfunction in the gut of IAV-infected mice. The correlation analysis and antibiotic cocktail treatment experiment showed that the TI IgA response in lungs is dependent on gut microbiota. These findings demonstrated that L. murinus supplementation reduces susceptibility to secondary MRSA infection in IAV-infected mice by promoting the TI IgA response, and provide a new perspective on the use of probiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infection following IAV infection.

The call for new approaches to prevent and treat metabolic syndrome-related diseases has led to research on the use of lacto-fermentative probiotics with beneficial metabolic properties like Lactobacilli. Here, we characterize the probiotic properties of a novel strain, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CNTA 628, and investigate its potential anti-obesity and health-promoting activities in the Caenorhabditis elegans model, additionally elucidating the molecular mechanisms involved. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CNTA 628 exhibited sensitivity to the entire spectrum of antibiotics analyzed, gastric and intestinal resistance in vitro, β-galactosidase and bile-salt hydrolysate activities, and the capacity to form biofilms and produce SCFAs. In addition, it reduced the binding of the pathogenic E. coli O157:H7 to intestinal epithelial cells (Caco-2) and exerted immune-modulating effects in cellular models. Supplementation with this probiotic significantly reduced C. elegans fat accumulation by more than 18% under control and high-glucose conditions, lowered senescence, improved oxidative stress, and significantly enhanced lifespan without affecting the development of the worms. Gene expression analyses evidenced that L. plantarum CNTA 628 plays a role in regulating daf-22 and maoc-1 gene expression, both linked to beta-oxidation pathways. Our results demonstrate the health-benefiting properties of this novel strain and suggest its potential as probiotic candidate for the prevention and treatment of metabolic syndrome-related conditions.

The role of the gut-skin axis and the human microbiome has become increasingly explored in various studies and as a result, the therapeutic potential of microbiome-modulatory agents has piqued interest. Probiotics have been explored as both a monotherapy for acne but also as an adjunct to reduce the side-effects of traditional established prescriptions to improve compliance. We review the evidence to support the use of topical and oral probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics in treating acne vulgaris. There is some evidence of a correlation between increased C. acnes colonisation and acne severity, supporting treatments targeting the skin microbiome. However, most studies rely on in vitro, animal models, or are of small sample sizes, with limited robust clinical trials currently available. Research often overlooks the interplay of endogenous and external factors affecting skin microbiota. Whilst many microbiome modulatory products are available, their multiple ingredients require further scrutiny to isolate any beneficial components and their potential adverse effects. Additionally, the role of other microbial species in acne pathogenesis needs further examination.

Background: Pakistan continues to experience a high burden of respiratory tract infections. Unfortunately, research on interventions to minimize RRTIs is scarce, and no definitive strategies have been developed. Probiotics have shown promise in supporting gut health and immune function in young children, according to various clinical studies. However, their potential to prevent or reduce the recurrence of RRTIs is not well-established. Therefore, I intend to undertake this study to assess whether probiotics can be used as a practical approach to reduce the frequency of RRTIs. Objectives: To determine efficacy of role of multi strain probiotics in recurrent respiratory tract infection. Methodology: This study was conducted at the Department of Pediatrics, Allied Hospital, Faisalabad, Pakistan, during the period of one year, from April, 2024 to April, 2025 and enrolled 95 children meeting the operational criteria for RRTIs. All received a 14-days course of Ecotec® probiotics containing Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-5, Bifidobacterium BB-12, Streptococcus thermophilus STY-31, and Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus LBY-27. Participants were followed for six months to assess recurrence. Stratified chi-square analysis was performed. Results: The majority (85.3%) of participants were aged under five. Overall, 56 children (58.9%) showed no recurrence of RRTIs. Breastfeeding showed a significant association with effectiveness (p = 0.048), while age, gender, immunization, nutritional status, and type of infection did not show significant associations (p &gt; 0.05). No adverse effects were reported Conclusion: Short-term administration of multi-strain probiotics effectively reduced the recurrence of respiratory infections in children, particularly among breastfed individuals. These findings support the use of probiotics as a safe, beneficial adjunct in pediatric respiratory infection management.

Background/Objectives: In this study, we aimed to evaluate probiotics' clinical efficacy and safety in adults with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), and summarize mechanistic evidence related to mucosal immunity and microbiota modulation. Methods: We performed a systematic review and random-effects meta-analysis. MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were searched until May 2025. Eligibility: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and mechanistic studies investigating probiotics (any strain, dose, or administration route) in adults with CRS were eligible. Primary outcomes included changes in Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-20/22) scores and CRS relapse rates. Secondary outcomes were adverse events and mechanistic endpoints. Results: Six studies (four RCTs, n = 337; two mechanistic studies) met the inclusion criteria. Probiotics did not significantly improve SNOT scores compared with the placebo, but trended in that direction (pooled mean difference-2.70; 95% CI -7.12 to 1.72; I2 = 0%). Furthermore, probiotic use was associated with a non-significant trend towards fewer CRS relapses (risk ratio 0.41; 95% CI 0.16-1.04; p = 0.06; I2 = 48%). Adverse events were mild and comparable to the placebo (risk ratio 0.87; 95% CI 0.33-2.34). Mechanistic data indicated that intranasal Lactococcus lactis W136 might downregulate type 1 inflammatory pathways and modestly increase microbiome diversity. Subgroup analyses (by route, duration, and CRS subtype) revealed no statistically significant effect modifiers, though mechanistic insights suggest possible differences in efficacy based on the CRS endotype and delivery method. Conclusions: Probiotics appear safe and may provide a small, non-significant improvement in CRS symptoms; emerging evidence of reduced relapse rates warrants further investigation through larger, endotype-stratified trials utilizing targeted probiotic strains and optimized delivery methods.

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background&lt;/strong&gt;: Currently, poultry industry faces the challenge of maintaining high production levels even with the prohibition on the use of antibiotics as growth promoters, and the direct effects of heat stress on birds. The above leads to search for natural alternatives that contribute to maintain production without compromising the health of the birds or the consumer. With this problem, probiotics are considered safe and natural additives that are beginning to be used in poultry diets, whose results may vary depending on the climatic conditions and the response variables analyzed. &lt;strong&gt;Objective:&lt;/strong&gt; To present a review regarding the impact of probiotics on broiler production, their mechanisms of action and their effects on animal health, with emphasis on poultry production under heat stress conditions. &lt;strong&gt;Methodology:&lt;/strong&gt; An exhaustive literature search related to the topics mentioned in the objective was done using digital means for scientific information inquiry, especially in journals with high scientific impact. Original research and review articles published during the last five years, as well as articles considered as classical, were selected. The results of this search were discussed and analyzed for the preparation of the review. &lt;strong&gt;Results: &lt;/strong&gt;The probiotic concept is defined, the species of microorganisms used to prepare a probiotic for animal nutrition are mentioned, and the characteristics and mode of action of probiotics are described. The results observed consistently upon the inclusion of probiotics in the diets of broilers reared under both thermoneutral and heat stress conditions are discussed. In addition, advantages and disadvantages of probiotics in the diet as well as changes in international regulations favoring their dietary inclusion to promote a safe and sustainable poultry production are included in this review.&lt;strong&gt; Implications:&lt;/strong&gt; Scientific evidences support the use of probiotics as a suitable alternative to improve the wellbeing of broilers and the efficiency of the poultry industry under heat stress conditions; however, it is important to know the microorganism type, its characteristics, dosage and benefits of using it with regards to the probiotic being used, in relation to the production system where it will be used. &lt;strong&gt;Conclusion: &lt;/strong&gt;The use of probiotics in diets for broilers reared under heat stress conditions is an interesting alternative aimed at reducing economical losses and improving the wellbeing of the birds. &lt;/p&gt;

The gut bacterial microbiome (GBM) plays an emerging role in the pathophysiology of chronic diseases, including hypertension (HTN). Growing evidence suggests that gut dysbiosis, defined by an altered microbial composition and diversity, is involved in the onset and progression of HTN. Exploring the underlying mechanisms linking the GBM and HTN paves the way for novel targeted therapeutic strategies. This narrative review aims to synthesize current data on the interactions between the GBM and HTN, highlight the bidirectional nature of this relationship, and discuss the clinical implications of microbiome modulation in hypertension management. Gut dysbiosis leads to increased intestinal permeability, facilitating systemic translocation of lipopolysaccharides, which in turn activate inflammatory (TLR4, NF-κB) and sympathetic pathways, contributing to endothelial dysfunction and elevated blood pressure. Moreover, certain microbial metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), exhibit antihypertensive effects, whereas trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) is associated with increased vascular stiffness and activation of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system. The relationship between the GBM and HTN is reciprocal: while dysbiosis can promote HTN, HTN itself may disrupt the gut microbial ecosystem. This bidirectional interaction suggests the existence of a pathological vicious cycle. Innovative strategies to modulate the GBM, including the use of probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics, and specific dietary interventions such as the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension diet, are currently under investigation. The emergence of pharmacological approaches targeting pathogenic microbial metabolites, such as TMAO, also represents a promising avenue toward precision medicine in hypertension.

The objective of this study was to perform a preliminary in vitro characterization of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum BG112, assessing its safety and technological features for potential application as a culture starter for an industrial fermented dry meat product. In vitro assays assessed its viability, probiotic properties, and safety for use in food formulations. The strain was characterized through morphological and biochemical tests, carbohydrate fermentation profiling, and various in vitro assays based on FAO/WHO criteria for probiotic selection. These included proteolytic activity, auto-aggregation capacity, tolerance to simulated gastric juice and bile salts, antimicrobial activity, and resistance to sodium chloride, nitrite, and low pH. Safety evaluations were also performed by testing antibiotic susceptibility, hemolytic activity, and DNAse production. The results showed that L. plantarum BG112 exhibited strong tolerance to adverse environmental conditions typically found during sausage fermentation and ripening, along with significant inhibitory activity against pathogenic bacteria, such as Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella Typhimurium, and Staphylococcus aureus. The strain also demonstrated no hemolytic or DNAse activity and presented a favorable antibiotic sensitivity profile, meeting key safety requirements for probiotic use. Further studies using meat matrices and in vivo models are needed to validate these findings. This study contributes to the early-stage selection of safe and technologically suitable strains for use in fermented meat products. These findings support the potential application of L. plantarum BG112 as a safe and effective starter culture in the development of high-value, premium fermented meat products, aligned with current consumer demand for health-enhancing and natural foods.

BackgroundThe human gut microbiome—a dynamic ecosystem of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and archaea—is integral to digestion, immune modulation, metabolism, and systemic health. Its composition is shaped by perinatal factors, genetics, environment, diet, physical activity, and probiotic interventions. Modulating the microbiome through lifestyle and nutritional strategies offers potential for disease prevention and enhanced athletic performance. AimThis review synthesizes current evidence on factors influencing gut microbiota composition across the lifespan, the systemic impacts of dysbiosis, and the roles of diet, physical activity, and probiotics—particularly in athletic populations—in fostering a health-promoting microbiome. Material and MethodsA narrative review was conducted using peer-reviewed studies, meta-analyses, and clinical trials sourced from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Topics included microbiome development, lifestyle and dietary influences, exercise-related microbiome adaptations, and probiotic applications. ResultsPerinatal factors such as delivery mode, breastfeeding, and antibiotics shape early microbiota with long-term health effects. Diet is a primary modulator: fiber- and polyphenol-rich diets enhance microbial diversity, whereas high-protein, low-fiber diets may impair gut health in athletes. Physical activity modifies microbiota structure and function; regular exercise promotes beneficial SCFA-producing taxa, strengthens gut barrier integrity, and supports immune and neurocognitive health. Probiotic supplementation improves gastrointestinal and dermatological conditions, modulates inflammation, and enhances athletic recovery and resilience. ConclusionsThe gut microbiome is a key determinant of systemic health. Targeted diet, structured physical activity, and personalized probiotic use can optimize microbiota function. In athletes, integrating microbiome profiling with individualized nutrition may enhance performance and recovery.

The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in maintaining the body's homeostasis, and its imbalance—referred to as dysbiosis—is increasingly associated with the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, including rheumatic disorders. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the complex interactions between the gut microbiota and the immune system, which may influence the development and progression of conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) The aim of this paper is to analyze the current state of knowledge regarding the relationship between the gut microbiota and rheumatic diseases, with particular emphasis on the immunological mechanisms involved. The work presents examples of alterations in gut microbial composition in patients with selected rheumatic conditions and explores the possible consequences of these changes for immune system function. Furthermore, the paper discusses potential therapeutic strategies aimed at modulating the gut microbiota, including the use of probiotics, prebiotics, dietary interventions, and the innovative approach of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT). By reviewing available studies, the paper evaluates the efficacy and safety of these methods and outlines directions for future research in the context of microbiota-targeted therapies as supportive treatment options for rheumatic diseases.

The article covers the main stages of intestinal microbiota (MB) research from ancient to modern times and addresses the features of the interaction between intestinal MB and renal diseases, the gut-kidney axis. It is believed that for the first time, MB was mentioned in one of the treatises of Ayurveda, “Caraka-Samhitā” (700–100 BC), and the first use of probiotics was mentioned in Ancient China (1000 BC). In the 1670s, Antonie van Leeuwenhoek, using an advanced microscope, described protozoa and bacteria, including intestinal MB. Later, in parallel with the discoveries of Louis Pasteur and Robert Koch, intestinal MB was a subject for research, with studies by Theodor Escherich, Henri Tissier, and our compatriots S.N. Vinogradsky and I.I. Mechnikov playing an important role. The next stage in the study of intestinal MB dates back to 1994 with the beginning of the use of 16s rRNA sequencing, metascience, and the organization of global projects for the MB study, the Human Microbiome Project and METAgenomics of the Human Intestinal Tract, the purpose of which is to study its composition and interaction with the body. An example of such an interaction is the gut-kidney axis, which reflects the metabolic relationship of the kidneys and intestinal MB. Within the context of this axis, the potential therapeutic possibilities of pro-, prebiotics and synbiotics in kidney diseases are investigated. However, despite advances in the field, further research is needed to develop of the most optimal strategy for correcting microbiota disorders, including in chronic kidney diseases.