Dear Colleagues,

In recent years, cardiovascular diseases have been linked to the gut microbiota, which is known as the heart-gut axis. Cardiovascular diseases are the most prevalent in the world, with high mortality rates and huge spences to the health system.  Thus, it is important to identify strategies that could treat or attenuate the consequences of cardiovascular diseases in order to reduce morbidity and mortality. 

The gut microbiota is defined as the microorganisms such as virus, bacteria, fungi that habit our intestines. They exert several important functions, for example, digestion of macromolecules that are indigestible, forming the short chain fatty acids, immunomodulation, production of vitamins, and maintenance of the integrity of intestinal barrier.

A decrease in the abundance and diversity of microorganisms have been seen in obesity and other metabolic diseases. Nevertheless, the exact mechanisms involved the pathophysiology is not completely understood.

By understanding the mechanisms that alter the gut microbiota on cardiovascular diseases, new medications could be used to modulate gut microbiota, restoring its function and diversity, and potentially treating or attenuating cardiovascular diseases. 

The aim of this special issue is to gather relevant information about the involvement of gut microbiota on cardiovascular diseases and its pathophysiological mechanisms and the strategies that have already been tested in order to modulate the gut microbiota.