Expanding the Therapeutic Scope of Phage Therapy: A Promising Approach to Managing Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis and Associated Diseases

The intestinal microbiota represents a vast consortium of diverse microorganisms that play a key role in human health. The theory of “gut-brain axis” describes the complex interactions accruing through hormonal, immunological and microbial pathways thus influencing the health of both brain and intestine. The gut microbial imbalance is considered major factor leading to numerous gut-associated diseases (inflammatory bowel disease, liver diseases, Crohn’s disease etc.). This specific condition may also promote the increased release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, monocytes, and T-helper cells and to affect the permeability of the blood-brain barrier thus contributing to the progression of various neurodegenerative diseases, such as Multiple Sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis etc. The role of phages in ameliorating microbial imbalances is an emerging area of scientific research and represents another promising field where phage therapy could earn trust and demonstrate its benefits. Given that bacteriophages generally act in a species-specific or even strain-specific manner, it is essential to precisely identify the bacterial species responsible for the observed microbial imbalance and the resulting illness. Recently, knowledge has been accumulated regarding the precise impact of intestinal dysbiosis on some diseases related to the gut-brain axis. However, significant gaps remain, particularly regarding the role of bacteriophages in maintaining gut microbiome balance and their potential positive impact on patient outcomes. Therefore, the aim of this Research Topic is to curate a comprehensive collection of the latest findings on the use of phage therapy in treating diseases associated with gut dysbiosis.To further explore the therapeutic potential of bacteriophages beyond targeting antibiotic-resistant bacteria — particularly in managing diseases linked to microbial imbalance — we welcome submissions that address, but are not limited to, the following sub-themes:• New insights into bacterial species linked to gut dysbiosis associated diseases and their susceptibility to bacteriophages• Strategies for modulating the gut phageome to influence disease-associated bacterial species• Strategies for phage delivery to the gut• Challenges in using phages to control gut microbial imbalance, including the viability of administered phages in the harsh gastrointestinal environment• Potential new phage-based preparations with possible real application in humans or animals• Regulatory challenges in the development and clinical implementation of phage-based preparationsIn this Research Topic we welcome the following article types: Hypothesis and Theory, Methods, Mini Review, Opinion, Original Research, Perspective, Review, Systematic Review, Technology and Code. Topic editors: Yoana Kizheva, Hugo Oliveira, Petya Kabadjova Hristova Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/75911/expanding-the-therapeutic-scope-of-phage-therapy-a-promising-approach-to-managing-gut-microbiota-dysbiosis-and-associated-diseases