The association between sulfate-reducing bacteria and gut-related diseases: a review

Abstract:

Sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB), key members of the gut microbiota, produce hydrogen sulfate (H₂S) during growth and metabolism. Studies have demonstrated that the overgrowth of SRB is associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), celiac disease (CLD), and colorectal cancer (CRC). However, there is no relevant research review to systematically address the role of SRB in intestinal diseases, pathogenesis, and intestinal microenvironment. Therefore, the characteristics of SRB in intestinal diseases and its pathogenic mechanism deserve to be further summarized and explored. This review collected the literature on SRB-related intestinal diseases published in the past decade and conducted a detailed analysis and summary. The research progress and other aspects were discussed in detail to increase the attention of researchers in this field to SRB. Moreover, we pointed out several areas that need in-depth research for understanding the role of SRB in intestinal diseases. We hope that this review will serve as a valuable reference for the treatment and prevention of SRB-associated diseases in the foreseen future.