Modulating the Human Microbiome: The Impact of Xenobiotics on Gut Microbial Composition and Therapeutic Strategies

The intricate network of microorganisms inhabiting our bodies, termed the human microbiome, holds indispensable significance in upholding our health. Nonetheless, disruptions to this intricate system, referred to as dysbiosis, have been associated with an array of illnesses, encompassing cancer, metabolic irregularities, and inflammatory bowel conditions. Xenobiotics are foreign compounds that can disrupt the gut microbiome and metabolism, and are categorized as “microbiota-disrupting chemicals” (MDC). In this book chapter, we provide an overview of the impact of xenobiotics on the gut microbiome and explore potential therapeutic strategies to mitigate their negative effects. We have discussed different types of xenobiotics, including pharmaceuticals, environmental chemicals, and pollutants, and examine how they affect the microbiome. We discuss the mechanisms by which xenobiotics affect the microbiome, encompassing the influences of MDC on gut microbiota and the consequences of alterations in microbiota on chemical metabolisms and host vulnerability. We also highlight the importance of distinguishing MDC from other disruptors such as diet, environment, and stress. The chapter further discusses potential therapeutic strategies for modulating the gut microbiome in the context of xenobiotic exposure. These include probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, which can restore the balance of the gut microbiome and mitigate the negative effects of MDC. We emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy microbiome and the potential of microbiome-targeted therapies in the management of various diseases.