The impact of gut microbiome on intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy—systematic literature review - Report - MDSpire

The impact of gut microbiome on intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy—systematic literature review

  • By

  • Florence Julie Donzé

  • Nadine Eli

  • Nicoletta Di Simone

  • Barbara Baur Cavegn

  • Martin Mueller

  • June 17, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: The Role of Gut Microbiota in Intrahepatic Cholestasis During Pregnancy

Overview

This systematic review highlights the potential role of gut microbiota dysbiosis in the pathogenesis of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP). It underscores the need for further research to explore microbial changes and their implications for therapeutic strategies in managing ICP.

Background

Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is a significant liver disorder that occurs during pregnancy, primarily in the second or third trimester. It is associated with increased maternal and fetal risks, including adverse perinatal outcomes. Understanding the role of gut microbiota in ICP could lead to novel therapeutic approaches and improved management strategies.

Data Highlights

No numerical data or trial data provided in the source material.

Key Findings

['Dysbiosis of gut microbiota has been implicated in the pathophysiology of ICP.', 'Alterations in microbial taxa and depletion of specific bacteria involved in metabolic pathways have been observed in ICP patients.', 'ICP incidence varies significantly across different ethnic groups and geographical locations, ranging from 0.3% to 27.6%.', 'Risk factors for ICP include maternal age, body weight, and genetic predispositions.', 'Bile acids play a central role in the development of ICP, influenced by gut microbiome composition.']

Clinical Implications

Healthcare professionals should consider the potential impact of gut microbiota on ICP when assessing risk factors and treatment options. Future research may lead to microbiome-targeted therapies that could enhance management and outcomes for affected patients.

Conclusion

The interplay between gut microbiota and ICP presents a promising area for future research, which may yield new insights into prevention and treatment strategies for this pregnancy-specific liver disorder.

Related Resources & Content

  1. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 2026 -- Assessment of perinatal outcomes in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy in relation to transaminase and bile acid levels
  2. Frontiers in Immunology, 2026 -- Resveratrol ameliorates intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy by modulating the gut-liver axis and FXR-mediated bile acid homeostasis
  3. Frontiers in Immunology, 2026 -- Editorial: Community series in the immunological role of the maternal microbiome in pregnancy, Volume II
  4. Surgical Endoscopy, 2025 -- Biliary Complications in Pregnancy: A Retrospective Analysis from a Tertiary Care Center
  5. American Gastroenterological Association -- Pregnancy-related gastrointestinal and liver disease
  6. PMC -- Association of adverse perinatal outcomes of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy with biochemical markers: results of aggregate and individual patient data meta-analyses
  7. Nature Communications -- Gut microbiota alters host bile acid metabolism to contribute to intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy
  8. Pregnancy-related gastrointestinal and liver disease - American Gastroenterological Association
  9. Association of adverse perinatal outcomes of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy with biochemical markers: results of aggregate and individual patient data meta-analyses - PMC
  10. Gut microbiota alters host bile acid metabolism to contribute to intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy | Nature Communications

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