Gut Microbiota alopecia aerata

The human gut microbiota ecosystem plays a key role in regulating the metabolic and immunological functions of the host, interfering with the nutrient metabolism, and modulating the release of pro-inflammatory mediators. Autoimmune diseases, such as alopecia areata (AA), might be associated to a state of intestinal dysbiosis, disturbing the balance and the health of the host by a feedback system. We recruited a cohort of 26 patients suffering from AA and a cohort of 18 healthy patients, selected after a survey on dietary habits. High-throughput sequencing and organic volatile compounds (VOC) profile were carried out to assess the impact of the AA autoimmune disease on the gut microbiome and metabolome.