Comprehensive Analysis of Biliary Microbiota and Bile Acid Profiles in Biliary Obstruction Patients With Clonorchis sinensis Infection

This study revealed significant differences in diversity, species composition and different genera in bile samples from the biliary obstruction patients with C. sinensis-infected versus non-infected groups. Simultaneously, we found a significant increment in the genus Staphylococcus, Proteobacteria, Bacteroides and Prevotella, and a reduction in Enterococcus and Lactobacilli in C. sinensis-infected group, which is characterized by a general decrease in beneficial bacteria and an increase in pathogenic bacteria. The species and pathways enriched in bile samples could be associated with the pathophysiology of biliary complications following C. sinensis infection. These alterations in biliary microbiota may compromise the integrity of biliary barrier, trigger and exacerbate inflammation. These results could supply novel and vital information for further understanding of the pathogenic mechanism of biliary injury following C. sinensis infection.