Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT) and Its Therapeutic Applications

Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT) involves the transfer of stool from a healthy donor to a recipient with the aim of restoring the balance of gut microbiota. This procedure is primarily used to treat conditions caused by dysbiosis, an imbalance in the gut microbiome. FMT has shown significant success in treating Clostridium difficile infections (CDI), especially in patients who have not responded to antibiotics. By reintroducing a healthy, diverse microbiome, FMT helps restore the gut's microbial ecosystem, improving both gastrointestinal and immune system function.

Beyond CDI, research is exploring the potential of FMT in treating other gastrointestinal disorders, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and obesity. Early studies suggest that FMT may also have therapeutic effects in non-gastrointestinal conditions like neurological disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, and mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety, by modulating the gut-brain axis.

Despite promising results, FMT is still considered an experimental therapy and is typically performed in controlled settings. Challenges such as donor screening, long-term effects, and standardization of protocols remain. However, FMT holds considerable potential for revolutionizing the treatment of various chronic conditions linked to gut microbiome imbalances.