Gut barrier disruption and chronic disease

The intestinal barrier protects the host against gut microbes, food antigens, and toxins present in the gastrointestinal tract. However, gut barrier integrity can be affected by intrinsic and extrinsic factors, including genetic predisposition, the Western diet, antibiotics, alcohol, circadian rhythm disruption, psychological stress, and aging. Chronic disruption of the gut barrier can lead to translocation of microbial components into the body, producing systemic, low-grade inflammation. While the association between gut barrier integrity and inflammation in intestinal diseases is well established, we review here recent studies indicating that the gut barrier and microbiota dysbiosis may contribute to the development of metabolic, autoimmune, and aging-related disorders. Emerging interventions to improve gut barrier integrity and microbiota composition are also described.

Automated summary

This article discusses the protective role of the intestinal barrier against gut microbes, food antigens, and toxins, as well as key factors associated with disease development and inflammation. In addition to known intestinal diseases, recent research indicates that intestinal barrier and microbiota dysbiosis may be closely linked to the development of metabolic, autoimmune, and aging-related disorders.