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Microbial-Endocrine Interface

Meaning

The Microbial-Endocrine Interface describes the dynamic, bidirectional communication system between the host’s resident microbiota, primarily in the gut, and the body’s endocrine system, which regulates hormone production, metabolism, and signaling. This interface represents a critical regulatory hub where microbial metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), directly influence the synthesis and activity of host hormones, including those related to appetite, stress, and sexual function. Disruptions at this interface, often termed dysbiosis, can contribute to systemic inflammation and metabolic disorders, profoundly impacting hormonal homeostasis and overall health. Clinical strategies are increasingly targeting this axis to restore endocrine balance.