Gut microbial-host isozymes: A novel perspective on gut microbiota-host interactions

The interaction between gut microbiota and host health has garnered significant attention since its initial discovery. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota is implicated in various diseases, particularly metabolic disorders such as diabetes, as well as neuro-, cardiovascular-, and hepatic-metabolic diseases. In recent years, the concept of microbial-host isozymes (MHIs) has emerged as a novel research area within the microbiome field. These enzymes, encoded by intestinal microbiota, can replicate the functions of host enzymes and contribute to disease development, presenting potential new therapeutic targets. In this review, we examine the current understanding of the discovery, function, and potential applications of MHIs. We summarize the distribution and functional enrichment of identified MHIs, provide examples of MHI-targeted interventions aimed at optimizing diabetes treatment, and discuss existing challenges and future research directions in this area.