Introduction: In recent years, the gut microbiota has gained significant attention as a key modulator of systemic health. Beyond its established roles in digestion and immune regulation, accumulating evidence suggests that the gut microbiota plays a crucial role in cardiovascular health by influencing chronic inflammation, lipid metabolism, and vascular function. This review aims to summarize current findings on the relationship between gut microbiota composition and cardiovascular disease (CVD), with a focus on its involvement in atherosclerosis development and progression.
Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed studies published between 2015 and 2024. Particular emphasis was placed on mechanisms linking gut dysbiosis with cardiovascular outcomes, such as the production of pro-atherogenic metabolites (e.g., trimethylamine-N-oxide [TMAO]), endotoxemia, and systemic inflammation.
Results: Alterations in the gut microbial profile—known as dysbiosis—have been associated with increased levels of TMAO, systemic inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction, all of which are key contributors to atherosclerosis and CVD.
Conclusion: Emerging interventions such as prebiotics, probiotics, dietary modification, and even fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) show promise in modulating the gut microbiota to reduce cardiovascular risk. Understanding the gut-heart axis opens new avenues for personalized prevention and treatment strategies in cardiometabolic health
Keywords: Gut Microbiota, Cardiovascular Disease, Atherosclerosis, Inflammation, Microbiome-Host Interaction