Advances in research on gut microbiota and allergic diseases in children
Heng Ke, Hongbing Yao, Ping Wei
Abstract
• This study highlights the growing global burden of allergic diseases in children and their recognition as a significant public health challenge. • It provides an overview of recent advances in understanding the interplay between gut microbiota and allergic diseases in children. • The associations of alpha and beta diversity, specific microbial taxa, metabolites, and probiotics with pediatric allergic diseases are systematically discussed. Epidemiological studies indicate a rising prevalence of allergic diseases, now recognized as a major global public health concern. In children, the progression of these diseases often follows the "atopic march," beginning with eczema, followed by food allergies, allergic rhinitis, and asthma. Recent research has linked gut microbiota dysbiosis to the development of allergic diseases in children. The gut microbiota, a crucial component of human health, plays a vital role in maintaining overall well-being, highlighting its potential in preventing and modifying the course of allergic diseases. This review examines the relationship between childhood allergic diseases and gut microbiota, drawing on the latest evidence. We first elaborated the concepts of allergic diseases and gut microbiota, followed by a discussion of the developmental trajectory of the gut microbiota in healthy children. This review further explored the richness, diversity, and composition of the gut microbiota, as well as specific microbial taxa associated with allergic disease. Lastly, we discussed the current status and future potential of probiotic interventions in managing pediatric allergic diseases.