Summary
This foundational review examines the bidirectional relationship between gut microbiota composition and intestinal immune system development and regulation. Drawing on developmental immunology and microbiological evidence, the authors propose that the mammalian adaptive immune system is substantially shaped and controlled by commensal bacteria, and that dysbiosis may underlie immune-mediated diseases including inflammatory bowel disease, autoimmunity and allergy.
Regional applicability
As a mechanistic review without geographic constraints, the immunological principles are universally applicable. The findings are relevant to United Kingdom clinical practice and public health policy regarding autoimmune and allergic diseases, and support investigation of microbiota-targeted interventions in the UK population.
Key measures
Adaptive immune cell development and function; host-symbiont molecular interactions; bacterial microbiota composition and diversity; immune dysregulation markers
Outcomes reported
The review synthesizes evidence on how bacterial colonization of the gut influences development of adaptive immune responses, and how dysbiosis contributes to immune dysregulation in diseases including inflammatory bowel disease, autoimmunity and allergy.
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