Advances in the effects of parasitic protozoan infections on the host gut microbiota

doi:10.12140/j.issn.1000-7423.2026.01.018

Abstract

Abstract:

Gut microbiota, as a crucial regulator of host health, has received growing attention for its role in parasitic protozoan infections. A variety of parasitic protozoa may induce host gut microbiota dysbiosis through direct invasion of intestinal epithelium, activation of inflammatory responses, disruption of intestinal barriers, or alterations in metabolic pathways, and this dysbiosis is characterized by a decrease in beneficial bacteria, proliferation of pathogenic bacteria, and a reduction in microbial diversity. Toxoplasma gondii and Giardia lamblia have been found to induce microbiota remodeling and persistently affect host metabolism, while the development of Leishmania and Trypanosoma in the intestines of their transmitting vectors are remarkably affected by microbiota. In addition, symbiotic bacteria may promote or inhibit pathogen growth and differentiation. Gut microbiota not only affects parasite colonization and infection severity but also modulates host immune responses through metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids, indoles, and bile acids, which is a non-negligible key regulator during parasitic infections. This review summarizes the alterations in gut microbiota caused by major parasitic protozoan infections and their potential mechanisms of actions, so as to provide insights into better understanding of pathogenesis and development of microecological intervention strategies.

Key words: Parasitic protozoa, Gut microbiota, Mechanism of action

CLC Number:

R382

LI Pengyao, LI Jing, ZHENG Bin, LU Shaohong. Advances in the effects of parasitic protozoan infections on the host gut microbiota[J]. CHINESE JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY AND PARASITIC DISEASES, 2026, 44(1): 124-129.

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