Microbiota in Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Endometriosis: Birds of a Feather Flock Together-A Review Microorganisms. 2023 Aug 15;11(8):2089. doi: 10.3390/microorganisms11082089.
Noemi Salmeri 1, Emanuele Sinagra 2, Carolina Dolci 1, Giovanni Buzzaccarini 1, Giulio Sozzi 3, Miriam Sutera 3, Massimo Candiani 1, Federica Ungaro 4, Luca Massimino 4, Silvio Danese 4, Francesco Vito Mandarino 4 |
Author information 1Gynecology/Obstetrics Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy. 2Gastroenterology & Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione Istituto G. Giglio, Contrada Pietra Pollastra Pisciotto, 90015 Cefalù, Italy. 3Gynecology/Obstetrics Unit, Fondazione Istituto G. Giglio, Contrada Pietra Pollastra Pisciotto, 90015 Cefalù, Italy. 4Department of Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy. Abstract Endometriosis and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are chronic conditions affecting up to 10% of the global population, imposing significant burdens on healthcare systems and patient quality of life. Interestingly, around 20% of endometriosis patients also present with symptoms indicative of IBS. The pathogenesis of both these multifactorial conditions remains to be fully elucidated, but connections to gut microbiota are becoming more apparent. Emerging research underscores significant differences in the gut microbiota composition between healthy individuals and those suffering from either endometriosis or IBS. Intestinal dysbiosis appears pivotal in both conditions, exerting an influence via similar mechanisms. It impacts intestinal permeability, triggers inflammatory reactions, and initiates immune responses. Furthermore, it is entwined in a bidirectional relationship with the brain, as part of the gut-brain axis, whereby dysbiosis influences and is influenced by mental health and pain perception. Recent years have witnessed the development of microbiota-focused therapies, such as low FODMAP diets, prebiotics, probiotics, antibiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, designed to tackle dysbiosis and relieve symptoms. While promising, these treatments present inconsistent data, highlighting the need for further research. This review explores the evidence of gut dysbiosis in IBS and endometriosis, underscoring the similar role of microbiota in both conditions. A deeper understanding of this common mechanism may enable enhanced diagnostics and therapeutic advancements. |
© Copyright 2013-2024 GI Health Foundation. All rights reserved.
This site is maintained as an educational resource for US healthcare providers only.
Use of this website is governed by the GIHF terms of use and privacy statement.