The Microbiome and Autoimmune Disease :
An Introduction
Bradley McEwen | PhD , MHSc ( Hum Nutr ), MPH , BHSc , AdvDipNat , DBM , DNutr , DSM , Fellow ATMS , Naturopath Nutritionist , and Mentor . Adjunct Senior Lecturer , Faculty of Health , Southern Cross University .
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases are a multifactorial complex group of conditions caused by the immune system ’ s inappropriate and abnormal attack on the body ’ s own tissues and organs . The human body hosts a vast and varied array of microorganisms , collectively called the microbiome . An imbalance in the composition and function of the microbiome characterises microbiota dysbiosis . Probiotics play a significant role in immune health , development of the immune system , and modulation of the immune system . This article briefly overviews autoimmune disease , the microbiome , and the clinical applications of probiotics .
Introduction
Autoimmune diseases are a multifactorial complex group of conditions caused by the immune system ’ s inappropriate and abnormal attack on the body ’ s own tissues and organs . 1 Essentially , immune cells cannot distinguish self-antigens from foreign ones . 2 The incidence of autoimmune diseases is increasing worldwide . 1 Women are more susceptible to autoimmune diseases than men . 1 Autoimmune diseases are a leading cause of death in young women . 1 The chronic nature of autoimmune diseases places a significant burden on the utilisation of medical care , increases direct and indirect economic costs , and diminishes quality of life . 3 The exact mechanisms underlying autoimmune diseases are not fully understood , but it is believed to involve genetic factors , 1 environmental factors , 1 and overall immune dysregulation . 1
Current therapeutic approaches primarily focus on modulating the immune response , mitigating tissue damage , and slowing the progression of autoimmune diseases . 1 However , these methods do not address the underlying causes of the autoimmune response . 1 Furthermore , a significant number of patients experience drug resistance or are unable to endure the adverse effects associated with these treatments . 1 Therefore , it is imperative to investigate novel therapeutic strategies to reduce the autoimmune response . 1 Optimum nutrition is the foundation for optimum health . 4 , 5 The human body hosts a diverse array of commensal and symbiotic microorganisms . 6 These microbes inhabit various environments , including the gastrointestinal tract , skin , vaginal area , and oral cavity . 6 The human body hosts a vast and varied array of microorganisms , collectively called the microbiome . 7 The composition and quantity of these microorganisms can vary not only across different organs but also among individuals . 6 The microbiota is crucial in the initiation , development , and functioning of the immune system . 7 The presence of the microbiome and microbial products regulates the development and function of the immune system . 6 Research shows that
206 | vol30 | no4 | JATMS