Published Paper Details:

Autoimmune diseases, characterized by the immune system attacking the body's own tissues, include conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), multiple sclerosis (MS), and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Emerging evidence suggests that gut microbiota, the complex community of microorganisms residing in the gastrointestinal tract, plays a significant role in modulating immune responses and influencing autoimmune disease pathogenesis. This review explores the intricate relationship between gut microbiota and these autoimmune diseases, highlighting potential mechanisms and therapeutic interventions. Dysbiosis, or an imbalance in gut microbial composition, has been implicated in autoimmune disease development through several mechanisms, including increased intestinal permeability, molecular mimicry, and altered immune system regulation. In RA, dysbiosis can lead to systemic inflammation and contribute to joint damage. In MS, gut microbiota may influence central nervous system inflammation and blood-brain barrier integrity. In SLE, alterations in gut microbiota composition can affect autoantibody production and disease activity. Therapeutic interventions targeting gut microbiota, such as probiotics, prebiotics, faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), and dietary modifications, offer promising approaches for managing autoimmune diseases. Probiotics and prebiotics can modulate gut microbiota composition and reduce inflammation, while FMT has potential for restoring a healthy microbiome. Dietary interventions, including anti-inflammatory diets, may also play a role in managing symptoms. Understanding the connections between gut microbiota and autoimmune diseases could lead to novel strategies for prevention and treatment. Future research should focus on validating these therapeutic approaches and exploring personalized treatments based on individual microbiota profiles.