Crohn’s Disease, the Microbiome and Infections: Mechanisms, Novel Diagnostic and Therapeutic Strategies for Pathology

Dear Colleagues,

This comprehensive review aims to explore the intricate interplay between Crohn’s disease, the microbiome, and infections, with a particular focus on the underlying mechanisms, diagnostic challenges, and emerging therapeutic strategies. Crohn’s disease, a chronic granulomatous inflammatory bowel disease, presents a complex pathophysiology influenced by genetic, environmental, and microbial factors, which are globally rising in incidence. This review will delve into the following key areas: pathogenesis and mechanisms: examination of the genetic predispositions that contribute to Crohn’s disease with insights into the immune dysregulation and inflammatory processes that characterize Crohn’s, including the roles of innate and adaptive immunity. Microbial interactions: analysis of the interactions between the host immune system and the gut microbiota, highlighting how dysbiosis and specific microbial pathogens, such as Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP), influence disease onset and exacerbation and on gut microbiome alterations in Crohn’s disease patients, including reduced microbial diversity and the presence of pathogenic bacteria. Pathogenic infections: exploration of the role of infections in Crohn’s disease, with a focus on bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens that may trigger or exacerbate the condition.

Novel diagnostic strategies will include biomarkers for identification and validation. Furthermore, evolving strategies such as microbiome-targeted therapies and innovative approaches, including targeted drug delivery systems, personalized medicine based on genetic and microbiome profiles, and potential vaccine development.

This Special Issue will identify key research priorities and gaps in the current knowledge that need to be addressed to advance the understanding and treatment of Crohn’s disease. By providing a detailed examination of the mechanisms underlying Crohn’s disease, the role of the microbiome and infections, and innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, this review aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the disease and to foster the development of more effective treatments.

Prof. Dr. Roger Pickup
Dr. Gaurav Agrawal
Guest Editors

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• infections
• gut microbiome
• Mycobacterium paratuberculosis
• Crohn’s disease
• ulcerative colitis
• innate immunity
• diagnostics culture
• molecular