Transforming Infection Treatment with Microbiome-Based Therapeutics

The microbiome, an intricate network of microorganisms residing both on and inside humans, plays a pivotal role in generating a diverse range of physiologically active compounds that significantly impact overall well-being. Perturbations in the microbiome have been associated with increased vulnerability to various diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, allergies, obesity, and infections. A novel array of advanced microbiome-centred therapeutics is currently under development to address these ailments. These therapies involve the transplantation of bacteria or bacterial-derived substances into individuals afflicted with diseases, aiming to reset the recipient’s microbiome and reinstate their well-being. While microbiome transplantation therapy is still in its nascent phase as a standard therapeutic modality, with only a few noteworthy cases demonstrating efficacy in clinical trials, its potential is substantial. This chapter delves into the basic understanding of the microbiome and its effects on human health and the immune system. Additionally, it focuses on microbiome-based therapeutics, highlighting the mechanisms by which these approaches can modulate the microbiome and improve infection outcomes. The chapter provides a detailed analysis of the application of these therapeutics, their translation from lab to clinic, their future potential, and the challenges encountered in developing microbiome therapeutics.