Microbiota-Driven Mechanisms of Post-Infectious Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Abstract

Post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome (PI-IBS) develops in a subset of patients following acute gastrointestinal infection. This translational study examined gut microbiota composition, mucosal immune activation, and epithelial barrier function in patients with PI-IBS. Persistent dysbiosis, low-grade inflammation, and increased intestinal permeability were observed months after infection resolution. Specific microbial patterns were associated with symptom severity. These findings provide mechanistic insights into PI-IBS pathogenesis and highlight potential targets for microbiota-based therapeutic interventions.