Faecal microbiota transplant - prospects and safety

Pomeranian J Life Sci. 2015;61(3):282-6.

Abstract

The intestinal microbiota, either directly or indirectly, plays an important role in maintaining the homeostasis of the body. The intestine microorganisms are significant due to the role they play in stimulating the development of the immune system, protecting against pathogens, and also managing metabolic and nutrient processing. The effectiveness of probiotics and prebiotics in various gastrointestinal diseases has been repeatedly confirmed. However, increasing interest in faecal transplantation has also been observed. Its efficacy in the treatment of pseudomembranous colitis has been repeatedly demonstrated. More often this method is discussed regarding the possibility of using it in other diseases linked with dysbiosis. Faecal microbiota transplantation, because of its rapid efficacy, minimal risk and adverse effects, relatively low cost, and the ability to re-establish the correct intestinal microbiota profile, could be an alternative treatment method in several other diseases. This paper will introduce the latest therapeutic aspects of microbiota transplantation, including its implications in the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases.

MeSH terms

  • Clostridioides difficile / physiology*
  • Clostridium Infections / therapy*
  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
  • Fecal Microbiota Transplantation / standards*
  • Feces / microbiology*
  • Gastrointestinal Microbiome / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic*