Gut barrier-microbiota crosstalk in sepsis: from pathogenesis to potential therapies - Report - MDSpire

Gut barrier-microbiota crosstalk in sepsis: from pathogenesis to potential therapies

  • By

  • Lingshuai Meng

  • Yingjie Liu

  • Nana Wang

  • Tiegang Li

  • Yu Wang

  • Mandi Li

  • June 18, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Interactions Between Gut Barrier and Microbiota in Sepsis

Overview

This review highlights the critical roles of the intestinal epithelial barrier and gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of sepsis. It discusses how dysbiosis and altered intestinal permeability contribute to systemic inflammation and sepsis progression, while also proposing therapeutic strategies targeting gut function.

Background

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition with high mortality rates, particularly when it progresses to septic shock. The gut, as a major immune organ, plays a significant role in the host's response to infection, and its dysfunction can exacerbate systemic inflammation. Understanding the interactions between gut microbiota and the intestinal barrier is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies for sepsis.

Data Highlights

No specific numerical data provided in the article.

Key Findings

  • The intestinal epithelial barrier (IEB) is crucial in maintaining immune homeostasis during sepsis.
  • Dysbiosis of gut microbiota can impair the IEB, leading to increased susceptibility to sepsis.
  • Pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) disrupt immune homeostasis, contributing to systemic inflammation.
  • Current clinical therapies may adversely affect intestinal integrity, complicating sepsis management.
  • Emerging treatment strategies targeting gut function may offer novel therapeutic directions for sepsis.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should consider the integrity of the intestinal barrier and gut microbiota when managing sepsis. Targeting gut function may provide new avenues for treatment, particularly in patients with dysbiosis or compromised intestinal integrity.

Conclusion

The interplay between gut microbiota and the intestinal barrier is pivotal in the progression of sepsis. Future therapeutic approaches should focus on preserving gut function to improve outcomes in septic patients.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Frontiers in Immunology, 2026 -- Gut microbiota and sepsis-associated acute kidney injury: a narrative review
  2. Frontiers in Immunology, 2026 -- Integrated multi-omics deciphers sepsis immune dysregulation: a dual-pathway targeted small-molecule therapy improves survival and ameliorates multi-organ dysfunction
  3. Infection, 2024 -- Investigating Gut Barrier Dysfunction's Impact on Postoperative Outcomes Following Liver Transplantation: Insights into Pathophysiology and Treatment Options
  4. Intensive Care Medicine, 2026 -- Reframing sepsis through resistance, disease tolerance and damage: a clinically meaningful conceptual shift?
  5. Surviving Sepsis Campaign Adult Guidelines | SCCM
  6. Effect of Selective Decontamination of the Digestive Tract on Hospital Mortality in Critically Ill Patients Receiving Mechanical Ventilation: A Randomized Clinical Trial | Trials | JAMA | JAMA Network
  7. A review of gut failure as a cause and consequence of critical illness | Critical Care | Springer Nature Link
  8. Surviving Sepsis Campaign Adult Guidelines | SCCM
  9. Effect of Selective Decontamination of the Digestive Tract on Hospital Mortality in Critically Ill Patients Receiving Mechanical Ventilation: A Randomized Clinical Trial | Trials | JAMA | JAMA Network
  10. A review of gut failure as a cause and consequence of critical illness | Critical Care | Springer Nature Link

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