Role of Gut Microbiota in Bone Healing: Implications for Sports Injury Recovery

The gut microbiota has emerged as a critical factor influencing bone health through complex integrations with the skeletal system. This review explores the multifaceted role of gut bacteria in bone remodeling, focusing on the gut-bone axis and its impact on osteoclast and osteoblast activity. The production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) by gut bacteria and their regulatory effects on bone cell activity, inflammation, hormones, and tissue production are highlighted, emphasizing their potential in promoting bone health. Key bacterial taxa, both beneficial and pathogenic, have been indicated with emphasis on their differential effects on bone healing. The therapeutic potential of prebiotics and probiotics has also been explored and elucidated. Furthermore, the review also investigates the influence of sports injuries on the gut microbiota and the role of gut dysbiosis in hinderance of fracture healing. Through the findings of this study based on the synthesis of existing knowledge in the field, gut microbiota modulation emerges as a promising strategy to support bone recovery after sport injuries. Additionally, it addresses the interplay between exercise, diet, and gut-bone connection, elucidating the role of physical activity and dietary interventions in the optimization of both, bone health and athletic performance. This review identifies the current knowledge gaps, challenges in clinical translation, and discusses the future directions in targeting the gut-bone axis for personalized therapeutic interventions.