IMPACT OF GUT MICROBIOME ON CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the primary cause of morbidity and mortality globally. The role of the gut microbiota in the development and progression of CVD is increasingly appreciated due to its effect on host metabolism, immune regulation and inflammatory responses. The objective of this narrative review is to examine recent findings of the association between gut microbiota and its metabolites on cardiovascular disease and to identify therapeutic possibilities directed at gut microbiota. A narrative literature review was done on the published articles from 2010 to 2025 from the databases of PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect. Only those articles comprised of relevant reviews, original research articles, and clinical studies were included. Data suggests disruption of intestinal homeostasis and chronic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, thrombosis, and atherosclerosis are associated with evidence of gut dysbiosis. The metabolites of beneficial microbes, such as bile acids and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), can defend cardiovascular health via regulating lipid metabolism, immune and gut barrier functions. On the other hand, toxic metabolites like trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) promote foam cell development, platelet activation, oxidative stress, and vascular inflammation, putting individuals at risk for worse cardiovascular outcomes. Dietary changes, probiotics, prebiotics and other microbiota-targeted interventions have demonstrated potential in restoring the balance of gut microbes and lowering cardiovascular risk. Finally, while further clinical trials and mechanistic studies are needed, gut microbiota and metabolites play a critical role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases.