Targeting the gut microbiome in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Background Gut microbiota (GM) composition has been associated with acute Graft-versus-Host Disease (aGvHD), however, current knowledge is insufficient to target the GM. Methods A relevant series of microbiome data sets were combined and reanalyzed, with resolution of species level changes in the GM. Results GM composition was found strongly correlated with aGvHD status after one month post stem cell infusion (R2=0.51). The predicted average biological safety level, indicative of antibiotic resistance, was found increased in aGvHD cases (p=1.6E-4). Using in silico modelling, we formulated a probiotic composition putatively competing with mortality and aGvHD associated species. Implications Supplementation with Bifidobacterium longum and Bifidobacterium breve is proposed as a prophylactic treatment alongside with prebiotics and an adapted antibiotics course.