The Role of Gut Microbiota and Leaky Gut in the Pathogenesis of Food Allergy

Abstract

Food allergy (FA) is a growing public health concern, with an increasing prevalence in Western countries. Increasing evidence suggests that the balance of human gut microbiota and the integrity of our intestinal barrier may play roles in the development of FA. Environmental factors, including industrialization and consumption of highly processed food, can contribute to altering the gut microbiota and the intestinal barrier, increasing the susceptibility to allergic sensitization. Compositional and functional alterations to the gut microbiome have also been associated with FA. In addition, increased permeability of the gut barrier allows the translocation of allergenic molecules, triggering Th2 immune responses. Preclinical and clinical studies have highlighted the potential of probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics in the prevention and treatment of FA through enhancing gut barrier function and promoting the restoration of healthy gut microbiota. Finally, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is now being explored as a promising therapeutic strategy to prevent FA in both experimental and clinical studies. In this review article, we aim to explore the complex interplay between intestinal permeability and gut microbiota in the development of FA, as well as depict potential therapeutic strategies.

Longitudinal cytokine and multi-modal health data of an extremely severe ME/CFS patient with HSD reveals insights into immunopathology, and disease severity

“…Due to their widespread distribution, the overactivation of mast cells and eosinophils can impact multiple biological systems and organs, affecting cardiovascular, endothelial ( 191 , 192 ), epithelial, mucosal, microvascular ( 193 ), metabolic ( 194 ), muscular, gastrointestinal, and connective tissues ( 193 , 195 – 197 ) as well as peripheral, central and autonomic nervous system. This cascade of effects can contribute to the development of complex multi-system conditions, exemplified by ME/CFS, which manifests with a diverse range of comorbidities ( 198 ) such as connective tissue disorders, small fiber neuropathy, migraine ( 199 – 201 ), POTS ( 202 , 203 ), immune system hypersensitivity ( 204 , 205 ), and dermatological manifestations (e.g., dermatitis, tingling or numbness, sensitivity, and allodynia) ( 206 ), as well as neuroinflammation, GI disorders, leaky gut ( 207 ), and autoimmunity observed in many patients ( 82 , 143 , 208 – 213 ). The excessive response of mast cells and eosinophils, coupled with aberrant degranulation, not only has the potential to trigger or exacerbate congenital conditions but also contributes to the development of acquired forms ( 214 ).…”

The New Paradigm: The Role of Proteins and Triggers in the Evolution of Allergic Asthma

“…Moreover, the environmental context with the action of viruses [14], pollutants [15], cigarette smoke [16] and allergens play a central role in epithelial injury. Moreover, industrialization and consumption of highly processed food, can contribute to altering the gut microbiota and the intestinal barrier, increasing the susceptibility to allergic sensitization [17].…”

The New Paradigm: The Role of Proteins and Triggers in the Evolution of Allergic Asthma

“…Moreover, the environmental context, including the actions of viruses [ 14 ], pollutants [ 15 ], cigarette smoke [ 16 ], and allergens, plays a central role in epithelial injury. Moreover, industrialization and the consumption of highly processed food can contribute to altering the gut microbiota and the intestinal barrier, thus increasing susceptibility to allergic sensitization [ 17 ].…”