Fig. 1
From: The gut microbiome’s role in the development, maintenance, and outcomes of sepsis
Conceptual illustration of the pathway between gut microbiome disruption and sepsis. Gut microbiome alteration predisposes to selection for pathobionts (potentially pathogenic bacteria that can reside in the gut microbiome), immune dysregulation, and decreased production of short-chain fatty acids, beneficial products produced by the gut microbiome. These changes can lower the threshold for sepsis development. Sepsis and treatment with antibiotics can drive worsening microbiome disruption in a vicious cycle, contributing to ongoing end-organ dysfunction. ARDS, acute respiratory distress syndrome; FMT, fecal microbiota transplant; MDRO, multi-drug resistant organism; SCFA, short-chain fatty acid