The role of the gut microbiome in autoimmune diseases
OA Version
Citation
Abstract
The terms "probiotic," "kefir," or even obscure names like lactobacillus or bifidobacteria are well known in today's society. Probiotics are known as bacteria that are consumed and marketed with the promise that, when taken, they will improve or restore the gut homeostasis and health of an individual’s own gut microbiota. Gut-related messages are now recognizable today in popular media and health-related research. It can be challenging to comprehend the true purpose and significance of our gut bacteria because there are many new supplements, health drinks, and advertising promising to solve the public’s health problems, some by fixing issues many were not even aware they had. This literature thesis will review today’s current studies and understanding of how gut microbiota regulates innate and adaptive immune homeostasis, which in turn can affect the development of systematic autoimmune diseases. The conclusion of this thesis reveals that probiotics’ health benefits are questionable. Probiotics and their effects have been the subject of numerous research studies, but there hasn’t been an established approach to studying them for each individual, making it challenging to compare the findings of various studies. Additional studies need to be done to further analyze the benefits of probiotic supplements.