Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of complex neurodevelopmental conditions with a heterogeneous and multifactorial etiology that is not yet fully understood. Among the various factors that may contribute to ASD development, alterations in the gut microbiota have been increasingly recognized. Microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract play a crucial role in the gut–brain axis (GBA), affecting nervous system development and behavior. Dysbiosis, or an imbalance in the microbiota, has been linked to both behavioral and gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms in individuals with ASD. The microbiota interacts with the central nervous system through mechanisms such as the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), the regulation of neurotransmitters, and immune system modulation. Alterations in its composition, including reduced diversity or an overabundance of specific bacterial taxa, have been associated with the severity of ASD symptoms. Dietary modifications, such as gluten-free or antioxidant-rich diets, have shown potential for improving gut health and alleviating behavioral symptoms. Probiotics, with their anti-inflammatory properties, may support neural health and reduce neuroinflammation. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is being considered, particularly for individuals with persistent GI symptoms. It has shown promising outcomes in enhancing microbial diversity and mitigating GI and behavioral symptoms. However, its limitations should be considered, as discussed in this narrative review. Further research is essential to better understand the long-term effects and safety of these therapies. Emphasizing the importance of patient stratification and phenotype characterization is crucial for developing personalized treatment strategies that account for individual microbiota profiles, genetic predispositions, and coexisting conditions. This approach could lead to more effective interventions for individuals with ASD. Recent findings suggest that gut microbiota may play a key role in innovative therapeutic approaches to ASD management.

Arterial hypertension is a chronic disease which is very prevalent contemporarily. The aim of this review was to investigate the impact of gut microbiota on the development and potential treatment of hypertension, taking into consideration underlying molecular mechanisms. The bacteria present in the intestines have the ability to secrete different metabolites, which might play a significant role in the regulation of blood pressure. The most important include short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), vasoactive hormones, trimethylamine (TMA) and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) and uremic toxins, such as indoxyl sulfate (IS) and p-cresyl sulfate (PCS). Their action in regulating blood pressure is mainly based on their pro- or anti-inflammatory function. The use of specifically formulated probiotics to modify the composition of gut microbiota might be a beneficial way of supportive treatment of hypertension; however, further research on this topic is needed to choose the species of bacteria that could induce the hypotensive pattern.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a very prevalent and insidious disease, particularly with initially poorly manifested symptoms that progressively culminate in the manifestation of an advanced stage of the condition. The gradual impairment of kidney function, particularly decreased filtration capacity, results in the retention of uremic toxins and affects numerous molecular mechanisms within the body. The dysbiotic intestinal microbiome plays a crucial role in the accumulation of protein-bound uremic toxins such as p-cresol (pC), indoxyl sulfate (IS), and p-cresyl sulfate (p-CS) through the ongoing fermentation process. The described phenomenon leads to an elevated level of oxidative stress and inflammation, subsequently resulting in tissue damage and complications, particularly an increase in cardiovascular risk, representing the predominant cause of mortality in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Therefore, exploring methods to reduce uremic toxins is currently a pivotal therapeutic strategy aimed at reducing the risk of organ damage in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This review aims to summarize recent discoveries on modifying the composition of the intestinal microbiota through the introduction of special probiotic and synbiotic supplements for CKD therapy. The potential to connect the gut microbiota with CKD opens the possibility for further extensive research in this area, which could lead to the incorporation of synbiotics and probiotics into the fundamental treatment and prevention of CKD.

Cardiovascular diseases and diabetes mellitus are currently among the diseases with the highest morbidity and mortality. The pathogenesis and development of these diseases remain strongly connected, along with inflammation playing a major role. Therefore, the treatment possibilities showing a positive impact on both of these diseases could be especially beneficial for patients. SGLT-2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists present this dual effect. Moreover, the hostile composition of the gut microbiota could influence the progression of these conditions. In this review, the authors present the latest knowledge on and innovations in diabetes mellitus and CVD—with the focus on the molecular mechanisms and the role of the microbiota.

Pediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome temporally associated with SARS-CoV-2 (PIMS-TS) develops in a small percentage of children after COVID-19, however, it might cause severe myocardial dysfunction. The pathogenesis of this disease includes systemic hyper-inflammation with cytokine storm. This case report concerns a 12-year-old boy with PIMS-TS who presented severe respiratory and circulatory failure with increased inflammatory markers and significant reduction of left ventricle ejaculatory fraction (LVEF) from 65% to 35%. The recommended therapy with the use of vasopressors, corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulins and mechanical ventilation was introduced and his condition gradually improved. However, after few days, aggravation of cardiac symptoms occurred again and among other treatment, the therapy with the use of anakinra - the human interleukin 1 receptor antagonist protein was introduced. This case highlights a satisfactory regression of cardiac disturbances and generally favorable outcome of the treatment in patients with PIMS-TS with the use of immunomodulatory therapy.