THE ROLE OF GUT MICROBIOTA MODULATION IN PREVENTING AND MANAGING SYSTEMIC DISEASES: A MULTISPECIALTY META-ANALYSIS OF EMERGING THERAPEUTIC AND DIAGNOSTIC APPROACHES

Abstract

Background: The gut microbiota, a complex community of trillions of microorganisms, plays a pivotal role in maintaining systemic health through its influence on metabolic, immunological, and neurological pathways. Dysbiosis, or imbalance in microbial composition, is implicated in systemic diseases, including gastrointestinal disorders, metabolic syndromes, and neurobehavioral conditions. Emerging therapeutic interventions, such as probiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), and dietary modifications, have shown promise in restoring microbial balance and improving disease outcomes.

Objective: This meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of gut microbiota modulation through probiotics, FMT, and dietary interventions in preventing and managing systemic diseases, with a focus on gastrointestinal, metabolic, and neurological health outcomes.

Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive literature search was performed using PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar for peer-reviewed studies published in English. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and meta-analyses investigating probiotics, FMT, or dietary interventions targeting systemic diseases. Risk ratios (RRs) and odds ratios (ORs) were calculated using a random-effects model, with heterogeneity assessed by the I² statistic. Data were extracted independently by two reviewers, and sensitivity analyses were conducted to ensure robustness.

Results: The analysis included ten studies with 1,093 participants, sample sizes ranging from 50 to 150. Probiotics demonstrated significant clinical benefits, particularly Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 in functional abdominal pain (HR: 1.60–2.10) and Bifidobacterium bifidum in IBS (RR: 1.45–1.95). Probiotic supplementation reduced Helicobacter pylori infections (OR: 1.50–2.05) and improved ulcerative colitis outcomes (OR: 1.20–2.10). Neurological improvements were observed in depression adjunctive treatments. However, substantial heterogeneity (Q = 152.77, I² = 86.3%) was noted, largely due to variations in study designs and interventions.

Conclusion: Gut microbiota modulation through probiotics and FMT offers significant therapeutic potential in managing systemic diseases, particularly gastrointestinal disorders like IBS, ulcerative colitis, and H. pylori infections. Neurological benefits further support its broader application. Despite promising findings, substantial heterogeneity and moderate risk of bias highlight the need for standardized, large-scale trials to confirm these outcomes and optimize protocols.