Executive Summary : | Alcohol-associated liver diseases (ALD) are a significant global public health concern, particularly in India, where 8-10% of young individuals suffer from ALD due to chronic alcohol consumption. The cause of this disparity is unclear, but endotoxemia, observed in individuals with ALD, may be a contributing factor. Endotoxins originate from the intestinal microflora and gut barrier dysfunction is the primary cause of endotoxemia. Alcohol disrupts gut microbiota balance, leading to harmful bacteria overgrowth, reduced beneficial bacteria, increased intestinal permeability, endotoxin translocation, and pro-inflammatory response. Alcohol consumption can lead to liver inflammation and disease. Paneth cells in the small intestine produce ?-defensin peptides and lysozymes, which help maintain a healthy balance of gut microbes. A lack of these peptides may contribute to dysbiosis in liver disease. Alcohol metabolism in the liver generates oxidative stress, resulting in mitochondrial damage and hepatocyte death. It is crucial to identify agents to inhibit oxidative stress, boost the immune system, and confer antimicrobial activity. Lactiplantibacillus pentosus (L. Pentosus) is a lactic acid bacteria with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, supports gut health, and can regulate intestinal immunity. It has been investigated for its potential use in food preservation and has shown anti-inflammatory effects in H. pylori-induced gastritis. Further research is needed to understand its potential role in alcohol-associated disorders and its impact on liver damage via the gut-liver axis. |