Autoimmune diseases, which affect over 24 million Americans, continue to rise in prevalence and complexity. This presentation, led by functional expert, Jaquel Patterson, ND, explores the emerging evidence that positions the gut microbiome as a foundational factor in the development and management of autoimmune conditions. While conventional treatment often focuses on symptom suppression, a root-cause approach requires examining the interactions between host immunity, microbial balance, and environmental exposures.
By exploring these complex relationships, this presentation equips practitioners with clinical insight and therapeutic strategies that address autoimmune disease at its source—the gut microbiome.
The session reviews how disruptions in gut microbial homeostasis—also known as dysbiosis—can impair immune tolerance and activate inflammatory pathways. Particular focus is given to the Gut-Associated Lymphoid Tissue (GALT) and its role in distinguishing “self” from “non-self.” Infections such as Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), Mycoplasma, and Borrelia are discussed for their capacity to trigger autoimmunity through molecular mimicry and bystander activation.
Additionally, we highlight gut microbes most studied in autoimmune disease, including Lactobacillus spp., Prevotella copri, and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii. The impact of both conventional therapies (NSAIDs, DMARDs, biologics) and integrative approaches (targeted nutrition, probiotics, botanicals like berberine and astragalus) on gut health and immune modulation are also discussed.
