The gut microbiota and its role in the development of cardiovascular disease.

Abstract

Introduction: The pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases encompasses a complex interplay of genetic and environmental risk factors. Even if traditional risk factors are treated to target, there remains a residual risk.

Areas covered: This manuscript reviews the potential role of gut microbiota in the development of cardiovascular disease, and as potential target. A systematic search was conducted until 30 October 2024 on PubMed (MEDLINE), using the MeSH terms [Gut microbiota] + [Dysbiosis] + [Cardiovascular] + [TMAO] + [bile acids] + [short-chain fatty acids]. Original data from clinical trials, prospective and retrospective studies, more useful reviews and experimental studies were selected.

Expert opinion: The term dysbiosis implies changes in equilibrium, with modifications in the composition and functionality of microbiota and a series of additional factors: reduced diversity and uniformity of microorganisms; reduced short-chain fatty acid - producing bacteria; increased gut permeability; release of metabolites, such as trimethylamine N-oxide, betaine, phenylalanine, tryptophan-kynurenine, phenylacetylglutamine, and lipopolysaccharides; and reduced secondary bile acid excretion, leading to inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction and facilitating the onset of pathological conditions, including obesity, hypertension, diabetes, atherosclerosis, and heart failure. Attempts to restore gut microbiota balance through different interventions, mainly changes in diet, have been shown to positively affect individual components and metabolites and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. In addition, probiotics and prebiotics are potentially useful. Fecal microbiota transplantation is a promising therapy. However, despite data from various studies, drugs targeting the gut microbiota are still far from being marketed, and further studies are warranted.