Fecal Microbiota Transplantation: Expanding Therapeutic Horizons in Gastrointestinal and Systemic Diseases
Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT) has gained recognition for its remarkable success in treating recurrent Clostridioides difficile infections (rCDI) and is now being explored for a broader range of conditions. A meta-analysis demonstrated that FMT significantly improves clinical and endoscopic remission in ulcerative colitis (UC) patients, with an odds ratio of 4.11 (95% CI: 2.19-7.72) and a safety profile comparable to placebo. Beyond UC, FMT has shown promise in addressing metabolic disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. For instance, it has been linked to improved insulin sensitivity, reduced inflammation in metabolic syndrome, and reduced motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease patients, likely through mechanisms involving the gut-brain axis. These findings highlight FMT’s potential across various medical fields. While promising, further research is needed to standardize protocols and confirm long-term efficacy. FMT represents an innovative therapeutic frontier with the potential to transform future healthcare.
