The role of gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of portal hypertension / 临床肝胆病杂志

ABSTRACT

Gut microbiota is the largest collection of commensal micro-organisms in the human body. Since the liver has unique anatomical location and vascular system, it is easily exposed to gut microbiota and their metabolites. Under normal conditions, the barrier function of the intestinal epithelium and the cleaning and detoxification function of the liver can prevent microorganisms or their products from entering the liver and systemic circulation. However, when the intestinal barrier function is damaged, a large number of bacterial products may enter the liver and systemic circulation and stimulate the body’s immune and inflammatory responses, and such perturbations become prominent in liver cirrhosis and may increase the risk of clinically significant portal hypertension. This article summarizes the role of gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of portal hypertension and provides ideas for clinical treatment.