Abstract:

Pneumoconiosis is an occupational disease caused by long-term exposure to silica-based dust in the workplace，leading to dust retention in the lungs，persistent inflammatory responses，and ultimately pulmonary fibrosis through prolonged pathological accumulation. The human gut microbiota is a complex ecosystem that plays a crucial role in metabolism，immunity，and overall health. Patients with pneumoconiosis often exhibit gut microbiota dysbiosis and associated immune-inflammatory responses. The disrupted microbiota and its metabolites can influence the distal pulmonary environment via the gut-lung axis through mechanisms such as bloodstream circulation and immune regulation，exacerbating lung inflammation and accelerating pulmonary fibrosis. Intervention strategies targeting the gut microbiota show promising therapeutic potential，offering novel perspectives for the prevention and treatment of pneumoconiosis. This review summarizes recent advances in microbial characteristics，underlying mechanisms，and interventional strategies based on domestic and international research，with the aim of providing valuable insights for future studies.

Key words: Pneumoconiosis, Fibrosis, Gut microbiota, Pathogenesis, Treatment, Research progress