Gut microbiota and tuberculosis

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), remains a significant global health challenge. Recent advancements in gut microbiota (GM) research have shed light on the intricate relationship between GM and TB, suggesting that GM alterations may influence host susceptibility, disease progression, and response to antituberculosis drugs. This review systematically synthesizes and analyzes the current research progress on the relationship between GM and TB, focusing on six key aspects: (1) bidirectional effects between GM dynamics and TB progression; (2) the interaction between GM and anti-TB drugs; (3) GM and TB immune response; (4) GM as a potential target for diagnosis and treatment of TB; (5) multi-omics and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in GM-TB research; (6) current challenges and future directions in GM-TB research. We highlight the bidirectional nature of the GM–TB interaction, where MTB infection can lead to GM dysbiosis, and changes can affect the host's immune response, contributing to TB onset and progression. Advanced molecular techniques, such as next-generation sequencing and metagenomics, along with AI, play pivotal roles in elucidating these complex interactions. Future research directions include investigating the relationship between GM and TB vaccine efficacy, exploring GM's potential in TB prevention, developing microbiome-based diagnostic and prognostic tools, and examining the role of GM in TB recurrence. By addressing these areas, we aim to provide a comprehensive perspective on the latest advancements in GM and TB research and offer insights for future studies and clinical applications. Ultimately, the development of novel microbiome-based strategies may offer new tools and insights for the effective control and management of TB, a disease that continues to pose a significant threat to public health.