Mechanisms linking the human gut microbiome to prophylactic and treatment strategies for COVID-19

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Walton, G.E., Gibson, G.R. and Hunter, K.A. ORCID: 0000-0002-0743-9724, 2020. Mechanisms linking the human gut microbiome to prophylactic and treatment strategies for COVID-19. British Journal of Nutrition. ISSN 0007-1145

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Official URL: https://doi.org/10.1017/s0007114520003980

Abstract

The recent COVID-19 pandemic has altered the face of biology, social interaction and public health worldwide. It has had a destructive effect upon millions of people and is approaching a devastating one million fatalities. Emerging evidence has suggested a link between the infection and gut microbiome status. This is one of several factors that may contribute towards severity of infection. Given the fact that the gut is heavily linked to immunity, inflammatory status and the ability to challenge pathogens, it is worthwhile to consider dietary intervention of the gut microbiota as means of potentially challenging the viral outcome. In this context, probiotics and prebiotics have been used to mitigate similar respiratory infections. Here, we summarise links between the gut microbiome and COVID-19 infection, as well as propose mechanisms whereby probiotic and prebiotic interventions may act.

Item Type:

Journal article

Publication Title:

British Journal of Nutrition

Creators:

Walton, G.E., Gibson, G.R. and Hunter, K.A.

Publisher:

Cambridge University Press

Date:

9 October 2020

ISSN:

0007-1145