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Update on the Gastrointestinal Microbiome in Systemic Sclerosis

  • Scleroderma (J Varga, Section Editor)
  • Published:
Current Rheumatology Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Accumulating evidence suggests that gut microbiota affect the development and function of the immune system and may play a role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. The purpose of this review is to summarize recent studies reporting gastrointestinal microbiota aberrations associated with the systemic sclerosis disease state.

Recent Findings

The studies described herein have identified common changes in gut microbial composition. Specifically, patients with SSc have decreased abundance of beneficial commensal genera (e.g., Faecalibacterium, Clostridium, and Bacteroides) and increased abundance of pathobiont genera (e.g., Fusobacterium, Prevotella, Erwinia). In addition, some studies have linked specific genera with the severity of gastrointestinal symptoms in systemic sclerosis.

Summary

More research is needed to further characterize the gastrointestinal microbiota in systemic sclerosis and understand how microbiota perturbations can affect inflammation, fibrosis, and clinical outcomes. Interventional studies aimed at addressing/correcting these perturbations, either through dietary modification, pro/pre-biotic supplementation, or fecal transplantation, may lead to improved outcomes for patients with systemic sclerosis.

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  1. Scleroderma Unit, Referral Center for Systemic Autoimmune Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico di Milano, University of Milan, Milan, Italy

    Chiara Bellocchi

  2. Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, 1000 Veteran Avenue, Ste 32-59, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA

    Elizabeth R. Volkmann

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Bellocchi, C., Volkmann, E.R. Update on the Gastrointestinal Microbiome in Systemic Sclerosis. Curr Rheumatol Rep 20, 49 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11926-018-0758-9

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