Evaluating the Efficacy of Secondary Metabolites in Antibiotic-Induced Dysbiosis: A Narrative Review of Preclinical Studies

Overview

Journal Antibiotics (Basel)

Specialty Pharmacology

Date 2025 Feb 26

PMID 40001382

Authors

Corina Andrei

Anca Zanfirescu

Victor-Pierre Ormeneanu

Simona Negres

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Background/objectives: Drug-induced dysbiosis, particularly from antibiotics, has emerged as a significant contributor to chronic diseases by disrupting gut microbiota composition and function. Plant-derived secondary metabolites, such as polysaccharides, polyphenols, alkaloids, and saponins, show potential in mitigating antibiotic-induced dysbiosis. This review aims to consolidate evidence from preclinical studies on the therapeutic effects of secondary metabolites in restoring gut microbial balance, emphasizing their mechanisms and efficacy.

Methods: A narrative review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Studies were selected based on specific inclusion criteria, focusing on animal models treated with secondary metabolites for antibiotic-induced dysbiosis. The search terms included "gut microbiota", "antibiotics", and "secondary metabolites". Data extraction focused on microbial alterations, metabolite-specific effects, and mechanisms of action. Relevant findings were systematically analyzed and summarized.

Results: Secondary metabolites demonstrated diverse effects in mitigating the impact of dysbiosis by modulating gut microbial composition, reducing inflammation, and supporting host biological markers. Polysaccharides and polyphenols restored the ratio, increased beneficial taxa such as and , and suppressed pathogenic bacteria like . Metabolites such as triterpenoid saponins enhanced gut barrier integrity by upregulating tight junction proteins, while alkaloids reduced inflammation by modulating proinflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-1β). These metabolites also improved short-chain fatty acid production, which is crucial for gut and systemic health. While antibiotic-induced dysbiosis was the primary focus, other drug classes (e.g., PPIs, metformin) require further investigation.

Conclusions: Plant-derived secondary metabolites show promise in managing antibiotic-induced dysbiosis by restoring microbial balance, reducing inflammation, and improving gut barrier function. Future research should explore their applicability to other types of drug-induced dysbiosis and validate findings in human studies to enhance clinical relevance.

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