Human microbiota in dengue infection: A narrative review

Abstract

Dengue fever, a widespread mosquito-borne viral infection in tropical regions, typically manifests fever and gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. However, the human gut microbiota's role in dengue pathogenesis remains incompletely understood. Studies have demonstrated dysbiosis during dengue virus infection, characterized by increased abundance of potentially pathogenic bacteria like Bacteroidaceae and Proteobacteria, particularly during the critical phase. Furthermore, microbial translocation and leaky gut syndrome, characterized by the translocation of intestinal microbial products, have been observed in dengue patients and are associated with hypercytokinemia, plasma leakage, and disease severity. These findings underscore the necessity for an in-depth investigation into the role of human intestinal microbiota as a potential contributing factor in the pathogenesis and progression of dengue. Further research focusing on human intestinal microbiota, leaky gut syndrome, and the potential implications of treatment with oral bacteriotherapy, as previously observed in other viral diseases, is essential to clarify dengue pathology and evaluate new therapeutic strategies.