Year: 2024
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Gut dysbiosis has been increasingly implicated in the pathogenesis of autoimmune disorders, yet there is limited research on its role in General Population. Differences in genetic, environmental, and dietary factors necessitate region-specific studies to better understand microbiota-autoimmunity interactions. Objective: To compare the gut microbiome composition between individuals with autoimmune disorders and healthy controls in a General population and identify microbiota alterations associated with autoimmune conditions. Methods: A case-control study was conducted with 138 participants, comprising 69 individuals with autoimmune disorders and 69 matched healthy controls. Data were collected on demographics, clinical history, and dietary habits. Stool samples were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, targeting the V3–V4 regions to assess microbial diversity and taxonomic composition. Alpha diversity was evaluated using the Shannon index, and beta diversity was analyzed through Bray-Curtis dissimilarity. Statistical analyses included t-tests, chi-square tests, and logistic regression using SPSS version 25. Results: Cases exhibited significantly lower Shannon diversity index scores (2.8 ± 0.4 vs. 3.2 ± 0.5, p = 0.01) and reduced Firmicutes-to-Bacteroidetes ratio (1.5 vs. 2.2, p = 0.03). Enrichment of Prevotella (12.4%) and Collinsella (8.5%) was observed in cases (p < 0.001). Logistic regression identified reduced microbial diversity as an independent predictor of autoimmune disorders (OR: 2.3, 95% CI: 1.2–4.4, p = 0.03). Conclusion: Gut dysbiosis characterized by reduced microbial diversity and altered taxonomic composition was significantly associated with autoimmune disorders in a general population. These findings underscore the need for microbiome-targeted interventions in managing autoimmune conditions.
Authors: Shafaq Ilyas, Sania Niaz
Institution: Islamia University of Bahawalpur
Language: English
Topic: Gut microbiota and health
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4407062085