Crosstalk between gut microbiota and viral pathogens: oxidative stress and metabolic dysregulation

Abstract The gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in maintaining immune homeostasis and mucosal integrity. Viral infections, however, can disturb this balance, inducing oxidative stress and immune dysregulation. Viruses such as HIV, influenza, and SARS-CoV-2 are known to alter gut microbiota composition, diminishing beneficial species while promoting pathogenic microbes. This dysbiosis, coupled with virus-induced oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, highlights the potential of targeting gut microbiota to mitigate viral pathogenesis. This review investigates the interaction between gut microbiota and viral pathogens, focusing on oxidative stress and immune dysregulation as key drivers in viral pathogenesis. We explore the potential of microbiota-based therapies in managing these aspects, proposing microbial and antioxidant interventions as promising therapeutic targets to support antiviral immunity and reduce oxidative damage.