Celiac Disease and Possible Dietary Interventions: From Enzymes and Probiotics to Postbiotics and Viruses

Abstract

Celiac Disease (CeD) is a chronic small intestinal immune-mediated enteropathy caused by the ingestion of dietary gluten proteins in genetically susceptible individuals. CeD is one of the most common autoimmune diseases, affecting around 1.4% of the population globally. To date, the only acceptable treatment for CeD is strict, lifelong adherence to a gluten-free diet (GFD). However, in some cases, GFD does not alter gluten-induced symptoms. In addition, strict adherence to a GFD reduces patients’ quality of life and is often a socio-economic burden. This narrative review offers an interdisciplinary overview of CeD pathomechanism and the limitations of GFD, focusing on current research on possible dietary interventions. It concentrates on the recent research on the degradation of gluten through enzymes, the modulation of the microbiome, and the different types of “biotics” strategies, from probiotics to the less explored “viromebiotics” as possible beneficial complementary interventions for CeD management. The final aim is to set the context for future research that may consider the role of gluten proteins and the microbiome in nutritional and non-pharmacological interventions for CeD beyond the sole use of the GFD.