Gut Microbiota and Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome (MODS)

Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), also referred to as external challenge-induced multiple organ injury, is characterized by dysfunction of two or more organs during infection or following shock or trauma. The pathogenesis of MODS is multifactorial and involves systemic inflammation and cell stress responses including cell death; sepsis is defined as an infection with MODS. Gut microbiota contributes significantly to organ dysfunction and to the pathobiology of sepsis. However, the relationship between the development of sepsis and the composition of gut microbiota is equivocal and is only now starting to be elucidated. Recent studies by our group and others reveal that enteric microbial composition and function are disrupted during sepsis, and that microbial products can either promote or alleviate the progression of sepsis. Here, we summarize the current research on the functional link between gut microbiota and sepsis, and argue the point that gut microbiota is a potential therapeutic target in the management of sepsis.